In the inaugural episode of Peaky Blinders, Thomas Shelby, the enigmatic leader of the Birmingham gang, is frequently seen with a cigarette dangling from his lips. He is primarily smoking Turkish cigarettes, specifically Turkish Ovals, identified by their distinct oval shape and unfiltered design.
The Allure of Turkish Ovals: More Than Just a Prop
Tommy Shelby’s choice of cigarette is far from arbitrary. In the era of the series, cigarettes were deeply intertwined with social status, masculinity, and the perceived sophistication of the modern man. Opting for Turkish Ovals speaks volumes about Tommy’s calculated persona and the image he consciously cultivates. The slender, unfiltered nature of these cigarettes also contributed to their perceived elegance, setting them apart from the more commonplace, mass-produced varieties. He is also, on occasion, seen smoking hand-rolled cigarettes using Drum tobacco. This usually occurs in private or during moments of reflection, hinting at a slight differentiation between his public image and his more intimate moments.
Historical Context: Tobacco in Post-WWI England
Following the First World War, cigarette smoking was rampant in Britain. Soldiers, hardened by the trenches, had often picked up the habit as a coping mechanism, and its popularity quickly spread throughout civilian life. The availability of cheaper, mass-produced cigarettes made smoking accessible to a wider population, but Turkish Ovals and similar imported brands retained an air of exclusivity, solidifying their association with wealth and influence. The use of tobacco itself, whether in cigarettes or pipes, was a deeply ingrained part of British culture, perceived as a symbol of relaxation, contemplation, and social bonding.
Tommy Shelby’s Smokes: A Symbolic Analysis
Beyond their historical context, Tommy Shelby’s cigarettes act as potent symbols within the narrative of Peaky Blinders.
Stress and Contemplation
Often, the sight of Tommy lighting a cigarette is an indicator of heightened stress or deep contemplation. The act provides him with a moment of respite amidst the chaos and violence that surrounds him. The ritual of lighting, inhaling, and exhaling becomes a physical manifestation of his attempts to control and strategize in an unpredictable world.
Control and Power
The cigarette is also a tool of power. Tommy often uses it to punctuate his words, emphasize his authority, and create an air of intimidation. The slow, deliberate movements associated with smoking add to his mystique and contribute to the intimidating image he projects. The unfiltered nature is a physical representation of how he does not filter his actions.
Mortality and Risk
Perhaps most significantly, Tommy’s constant smoking serves as a subtle reminder of mortality. In a world defined by violence and danger, the cigarette becomes a symbol of his acceptance of risk and his awareness of the fragility of life. It’s a constant, low-grade threat that mirrors the larger existential threats he faces daily. The lack of a filter, exposing him to more nicotine and tar, amplifies this association with risk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions about Tommy Shelby’s smoking habits, explored in detail:
FAQ 1: What brand of Turkish Ovals does Tommy Shelby smoke?
While the show doesn’t explicitly name the brand, it’s understood to be a generic representation of Turkish Ovals, a popular style of cigarette during the early 20th century. Specific brands like Abdulla were well-known for this shape. Due to production limitations, the show does not specifically utilize one brand.
FAQ 2: Why doesn’t Tommy use a filter on his cigarettes?
Filters were not yet ubiquitous in cigarettes during the time period depicted in Peaky Blinders. They gained wider adoption later in the 20th century. This adds authenticity to the series’ portrayal of the era and reinforces the idea that Tommy’s cigarettes represent a status symbol, not necessarily a health choice.
FAQ 3: Is Tommy Shelby addicted to nicotine?
Given the frequency with which he smokes, it’s highly probable that Tommy Shelby is addicted to nicotine. His smoking habits act as a coping mechanism, particularly in stressful situations, which is a characteristic of addiction. The constant craving for nicotine likely plays a role in his irritability and intense focus.
FAQ 4: Did Cillian Murphy actually smoke real cigarettes while filming?
No, Cillian Murphy did not smoke real cigarettes throughout the filming of Peaky Blinders. He primarily used herbal cigarettes that are nicotine-free and tobacco-free. This is a common practice in film and television to protect the actor’s health and avoid the addictive properties of nicotine.
FAQ 5: Are herbal cigarettes healthier than regular cigarettes?
While herbal cigarettes don’t contain nicotine or tobacco, they still involve the inhalation of burnt plant matter, which can be harmful to the lungs. Burning any material releases carcinogens, so they are not a healthy alternative to regular cigarettes. They are simply less addictive for the actor.
FAQ 6: Why did the showrunners choose Turkish Ovals for Tommy Shelby?
The choice was deliberate, reflecting the fashion and perception of that era. The unfiltered, oval-shaped cigarettes lent Tommy’s character an air of sophistication and a sense of danger. They visually represented his wealth and disregard for conventional health concerns, fitting with his overall character arc.
FAQ 7: Does Tommy Shelby ever smoke anything other than Turkish Ovals?
As mentioned previously, yes. While Turkish Ovals are his primary choice, there are instances where Tommy smokes hand-rolled cigarettes using Drum tobacco. These instances usually occur in more private settings, suggesting a shift away from the calculated image he portrays in public.
FAQ 8: How much does a pack of Turkish Ovals cost back then, compared to today?
The cost of Turkish Ovals during the post-WWI era was significantly higher than that of mass-produced cigarettes. Adjusting for inflation, a pack would likely cost considerably more in today’s market, reflecting their status as a luxury item. Accurate price comparisons are difficult due to fluctuating economic conditions.
FAQ 9: Did the production team have to obtain special permits to use tobacco on set?
Regulations regarding tobacco use on film sets vary depending on location and specific laws. However, with Cillian Murphy using herbal cigarettes, the need for such stringent permitting would be minimized. The production team would still likely consult with legal experts to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations.
FAQ 10: Are there any other characters in Peaky Blinders known for their specific smoking habits?
While Tommy’s smoking is the most prominent, other characters have their own distinct smoking habits that contribute to their individual personas. Arthur Shelby, for example, is often depicted smoking with a frantic energy, mirroring his volatile nature. The act of smoking in various styles helps further develop the characters’ personalities.
FAQ 11: How does Tommy Shelby’s smoking habit contribute to the overall aesthetic of Peaky Blinders?
Tommy Shelby’s smoking is integral to the overall aesthetic of Peaky Blinders. The hazy atmosphere created by the cigarette smoke contributes to the show’s gritty and atmospheric visual style, further immersing the audience in the post-WWI Birmingham setting. It becomes another layer within the rich tapestry of visual storytelling.
FAQ 12: What does Tommy smoking in episode 1 tell us about the show in its totality?
Tommy Shelby smoking in episode 1 sets the tone for the entire series. It establishes him as a complex and compelling character driven by trauma, ambition, and a constant battle against inner demons. The cigarette becomes a visual shorthand for his internal struggles and his willingness to navigate the morally grey world he inhabits, hinting at the complex narrative that will unfold.