Overview

• Max Porter adapted his 2023 novella Shy into a screenplay that shifts the narrative focus from the student to the headteacher for a broader exploration of institutional strain and personal turmoil.
• The newly released trailer reveals a single pivotal day at a last-chance reform school framed by a documentary crew, heightening both institutional pressure and Steve’s mental-health struggles.
• Cillian Murphy, who also produces under Big Things Films, calls the role one of his most exposing and terrifying and credits real-world teachers’ experiences for shaping his performance.
• Supporting cast includes Jay Lycurgo as troubled teen Shy, along with Tracey Ullman, Simbi Ajikawo and Emily Watson under the direction of Tim Mielants.
• Steve is slated to premiere in TIFF’s Platform program in September, open in select cinemas on September 19 and begin global streaming on Netflix on October 3, 2025.