Irish actor Cillian Murphy has described Independent People, the classic novel by Icelandic Nobel laureate Halldór Laxness, as a “magnificent work.”
Speaking on Jack Edwards’ podcast, Inklings Book Club, Murphy said he was so captivated by the story that he read half of it in one sitting during a transatlantic flight.
The actor revealed that it was English author Max Porter who first recommended the novel to him, suggesting he needed “an exciting and not superficial piece of work.” Porter believed Laxness’ 1934–35 epic, which explores the struggles and stubborn independence of Icelandic farmers, would resonate with Murphy.
“Magnificent Work” 
Halldor Laxness and his wife. Photo: Gljúfrasteinn / Laxness Museum
“It’s such an amazing book. I just couldn’t put it down,” Murphy said. You can watch the full clip here.
Murphy, best known for portraying Tommy Shelby in Peaky Blinders, has long expressed a deep interest in literature. In 2023, Murphy won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer in Oppenheimer, further cementing his reputation as one of the most accomplished actors of his generation.
“Laxness’ writing is extraordinary,” Murphy added. “It’s one of those works that stays with you.” (Interestingly enough, Halldór Laxness’ middle name is actually ‘Kiljan,’ prompting the Vísir headline ‘Cillian Praises Kiljan.’)