Peaky Blinders Clothing, Accessories & Figures

The basic premise of Peaky Blinders is set in post-World War I Birmingham, England, and follows the criminal Shelby family. Led by the charismatic, ambitious, and ruthless Thomas "Tommy" Shelby, who is the de facto leader of the notorious gang known as the "Peaky Blinders." The gang's name originates from the razor blades they conceal in the peaks of their caps, which they use as weapons. The series begins with Tommy returning from the war and attempting to expand his family's influence, transforming their illicit activities (such as illegal betting, smuggling, and extortion) into a legitimate enterprise. This brings him into conflict with rival gangs, the police (especially the hard-nosed Inspector Chester Campbell), and historical figures. As the plot unfolds, the series explores the complexity of the Shelby family, Tommy's personal struggles (particularly with PTSD), their moral dilemmas, and the relentless pursuit of power and social recognition in a tumultuous era.

The main characters of Peaky Blinders primarily consist of the members of the dynamic and complex Shelby family, which forms the core of the series. Thomas "Tommy" Shelby is the undisputed protagonist, a complex and charismatic leader, haunted by the war, driven by the ambition to elevate his family regardless of the moral cost. Arthur Shelby Jr. is the eldest brother, a violent and unpredictable man grappling with rage and PTSD, often serving as the gang's enforcer. John Shelby is the third brother, more impulsive but loyal to Tommy. Polly Gray (Aunt Elizabeth) is the matriarchal figure of the family, a strong, intelligent, and ruthless woman who maintains balance and manages finances while the men are away at war. Ada Thorne (née Shelby) is the only sister, who initially tries to distance herself from the family's criminal activities. Other significant characters include Grace Burgess (who becomes Tommy's wife), Lizzie Stark (Tommy's secretary and later wife), and Michael Gray (Polly's son). The dynamic of the Shelby family is characterized by mutual loyalty, fierce conflicts, but also an unwavering devotion to one another, which enables them to survive and thrive in their harsh world.

Peaky Blinders explores a multitude of dark and relevant themes that make it a profound historical drama beyond a simple gangster story. Central to it is survival and social climbing in a harsh post-war era, as the Shelbys attempt to transform their criminal empire into legitimate power. The theme of "war trauma" is dominant, with Tommy and Arthur constantly battling post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and its psychological effects. The concept of "identity" and how people try to escape their past, but often end up trapped by it, are also explored. The series touches upon political corruption, class struggle, fascism, and the rise of socialism, as the Shelbys interact with historical events and figures. Additionally, it highlights family dynamics, loyalty, betrayal, and the extreme decisions that must be made to protect loved ones. Peaky Blinders is a captivating, stylish, and violent drama that offers a relentless, yet appealing, look at the rise of a family from the lower social strata to the peak of power.