S1 EP1

In the show, Peaky Blinders, the first depiction of violence comes in the thirteenth minute of the first episode. Before this scene, the show establishes Tommy Shelby as a powerful man in a working class town. The reactions of the civilians allude to his powerful presence in the community. After entering a bar, the Garrison, Tommy is met with another example of respect, or more likely fear, when the bartender swiftly greets him with “drinks on the house.” While finishing a conversation with Freddy Thorne, a local communist, Danny “Whizz Bang” slams through the doors of the Garrison and begins to tear the pub apart. Tables, chairs, and glasses are flung through the air, smashing on the ground. The patrons attempt to take cover, but it is difficult to hide. During Danny’s tirade he helplessly screams that “they’re going to get me,” but no one is chasing him. Eventually, Freddy and Tommy grab Danny and throw him to the ground. Once Danny is tackled, Freddy and Tommy both attempt to calm him. Throughout the scene, the camera angle constantly changes to emphasize the manic situation. First the camera captures Danny in the background, then it is up close showing the alcohol spilling from the glasses, it then switches to a low angle of the onlookers running, and finally a close shot to show the struggle between Danny, Tommy, and Freddie. The switching angles highlight the intensity, but they also show the encounter from every point of view. The scene is also very loud, including background noises that make the audience feel they are a part of the scene. When Danny is finally on the ground, the camera is moved close to his face, showing the sweat and tears that accompany his frantic behavior. The emotion and unnecessary violence highlight Danny’s struggles. These struggles are the reason he has been given the nickname “Whizz Bang.” He often has post traumatic episodes where he sometimes believes he is a bullet, hence the name “Whizz Bang,” and other times thinks he is being chased.