After 6 films and multiple successes together, it is safe to say that Cillian Murphy and Christopher Nolan are a match made in heaven. This dynamic actor-director duo who began their association with Batman Begins in 2005, have shared an inspirational journey together. 2023 saw Murphy taking on his first leading role in Nolan’s Oppenheimer, in arguably what is considered his best performance yet.
The Irish star was first noticed by the director when he saw him in Danny Boyle’s 2002 apocalyptic film, 28 Days Later, and was so impressed that he invited Murphy to audition for Batman Begins. The film and the Inception actor’s performance also made a huge impact on other Hollywood stars including Woody Harrelson.
Cillian Murphy Gave Woody Harrelson Sleepless Nights
In 2002, Cillian Murphy starred in 28 Days Later, a post-apocalyptic horror film about a deadly virus outbreak that turned everyone into brain-dead serial killers. Directed by Danny Boyle, the film received critical acclaim while also making the numbers at the box office. More significantly, it introduced viewers to Murphy’s prolific talent through his intense and powerful portrayal.
Apart from Nolan and viewers worldwide, the Dunkirk actor’s performance made a big impression on his colleagues from Hollywood as well. Woody Harrelson was one celebrity who was haunted by Murphy’s blazing presence. In a quote that appeared on IMDb, Harrelson spoke of the emotions he felt after watching the Irish actor on screen.
“I was sleepless, man”
Cillian Murphy’s effort in 28 Days Later was the stepping stone for him to forge a lifelong association with one of Hollywood’s most accomplished directors, Christopher Nolan.
How Cillian Murphy Caught Christopher Nolan’s Attention
With his towering performance in 2023’s Oppenheimer, Cillian Murphy cemented his place as one of Hollywood’s most intense actors. While he has been a Christopher Nolan favorite after having done 6 films with the director to date, it was his terrific performance in Danny Boyle’s 28 Years Later that made Nolan sit up and take notice of his talent. In an interview with IGN, the Insomnia filmmaker spoke of how his presence in a still from the film, made a lasting impression.
“I’d seen a photograph of him from Danny Boyle’s 28 Days Later. I’d just been very struck by his appearance and his amazing eyes and that gaze.”
Interestingly, Murphy was called upon to audition for the role of Batman in Nolan’s trilogy but ended up being rejected. But as fate would have it, the director was so impressed by the star’s talent, that he decided to work with him despite not casting him as Batman. Murphy, who ended up playing Scarecrow in the films, went on to become one of Nolan’s preferred actors.
