Alfie Allen Leads Sky’s New Drama Atomic – A Must-Watch Spy Thriller

A First Look That Packs a Punch
Sky Atlantic just dropped the trailer for Atomic, and it’s already generating serious buzz. This isn’t your average TV drama—think high-stakes uranium trafficking, dangerous alliances, and a game of survival against some of the world’s most ruthless forces.
What’s the Story?
The series follows Max (Alfie Allen), a reckless drug smuggler who finds himself caught up in something way bigger than he ever imagined. Along the way, he teams up with JJ (Shazad Latif), a man with a troubled past he can’t seem to escape.
What starts as a shady job quickly spirals into a global crisis involving the CIA, MI6, and cartel hitmen. It’s a fight not just for survival, but for redemption. And as the story unfolds, Max and JJ’s uneasy partnership grows into something surprisingly powerful.
Who’s in It?
The cast is one of the big reasons fans are hyped:
- Alfie Allen (yes, from Game of Thrones) as Max, bringing grit and unpredictability.
- Shazad Latif as JJ, balancing mystery and vulnerability.
- Samira Wiley (The Handmaid’s Tale) as Cassie Elliott, a CIA officer convinced these two men are about to start a terror attack.
- Supporting actors like Charlie Murphy add depth to the world of espionage and cartels.
The Team Behind the Scenes
Atomic isn’t just a flashy thriller—it’s grounded in real-world tension. It’s adapted from the book Atomic Bazaar by William Langewiesche, with the screenplay written by Gregory Burke (Rebus) and directed by Shariff Korver. Filmed across Morocco in 2024, the show has a cinematic look and an authentic feel that makes every scene pulse with tension.
When and Where to Watch
Mark your calendars: August 28, 2025. That’s when Atomic premieres on Sky Atlantic and NOW TV. With just five tightly written episodes, this series promises to be lean, intense, and impossible to look away from.
Quick Facts About Atomic
Detail | Info |
---|---|
Genre | Action-thriller / Drama |
Episodes | 5-part limited series |
Premiere Date | August 28, 2025 |
Platform | Sky Atlantic & NOW |
Stars | Alfie Allen, Shazad Latif, Samira Wiley |
Based On | “Atomic Bazaar” by William Langewiesche |
Filming | Morocco, 2024 |

Why Atomic Should Be On Your Watchlist
- High Stakes, Big Payoff – From nuclear trafficking to desert chases, the show never lets up.
- Incredible Performances – Allen, Latif, and Wiley bring intensity and emotion to every scene.
- Rooted in Reality – Based on nonfiction, the story feels disturbingly possible.
- Visually Stunning – Filmed in Morocco, expect sweeping landscapes and raw grit.
- Perfect Length – With just 5 episodes, there’s no filler—only pure suspense.
Final Thoughts
Atomic isn’t just another action series—it’s a tightly crafted, character-driven thriller that hooks you from the start. Between its real-world inspiration, powerhouse cast, and jaw-dropping cinematography, this Sky Atlantic original has all the makings of a must-watch event.
Come August 28, expect social media to be buzzing, group chats to be debating plot twists, and fans begging for a second season—even though this one is designed as a complete story.
If you love suspense, high drama, and action that actually feels grounded, Atomic is your next obsession.