Alpha Review: Weak Writing Derails Alia Bhatt’s Spy Thriller

Yash Raj Films’ latest Spy Universe entry, Alpha, released in theatres on July 3 with Alia Bhatt leading the franchise’s first female-led adventure. Despite its ambitious scale, stylish action and star-studded cast, the film has drawn widespread criticism for its predictable story, weak screenplay and franchise fatigue.

The arrival of Alpha was positioned as a landmark moment for the YRF Spy Universe, introducing Alia Bhatt as the franchise’s first female lead alongside Sharvari. Directed by Shiv Rawail and featuring Bobby Deol, Anil Kapoor, Dia Mirza and a cameo by Hrithik Roshan, the film promised to expand the universe with a new generation of spies. Instead, it exposes the growing creative exhaustion of a franchise increasingly dependent on spectacle rather than storytelling.

At the heart of the film is Sita, a genetically altered operative raised by former military officer Fateh Singh after a secret experiment transforms her before birth. The premise blends espionage with science fiction and mythology, but critics widely argue that the concept never develops into a compelling narrative. Rather than feeling original, the screenplay is frequently described as a patchwork of familiar Hollywood influences, comic-book tropes and recycled franchise formulas.

The film’s biggest strength is its cast, yet even committed performances struggle against material that rarely rises above the ordinary. Alia Bhatt commits fully to the physically demanding role, bringing conviction to the action scenes and emotional intensity to her character’s internal conflict. Several reviewers praised her expressive screen presence during combat, noting that she avoids the emotionless action-hero stereotype.

Sharvari delivers an energetic supporting performance and shares solid chemistry with Bhatt, particularly during the film’s hand-to-hand combat sequences. However, critics repeatedly point out that the screenplay fails to explore the relationship between the two women, opting instead for extended action set pieces that offer little emotional payoff.

Bobby Deol earns some of the strongest notices among the supporting cast, portraying the antagonist with controlled menace. His restrained performance gives the villain moments of genuine threat, but reviewers argue that the script never provides the character with enough depth or motivation. Anil Kapoor brings authority to his role as the intelligence chief, though his character is similarly limited by underdeveloped writing.

Where Alpha consistently earns praise is in its technical presentation. The film features polished visuals, elaborate action choreography, international locations and an energetic background score. Several fight sequences stand out as highlights, proving the production’s technical capability. Yet critics contend that expensive production values cannot compensate for a story lacking urgency, surprise or emotional investment.

Much of the criticism focuses on the screenplay’s reliance on familiar YRF Spy Universe conventions. The Pakistan-related conflict, secret laboratories, rogue military operatives, family revelations and crossover cameos are viewed as increasingly formulaic. Hrithik Roshan’s brief appearance has largely been described as forced fan service rather than an organic contribution to the story.

Another recurring criticism is the film’s inconsistent tone. While some scenes embrace exaggerated action spectacle, the narrative simultaneously expects viewers to treat its emotional drama with complete seriousness. That imbalance leaves many major plot developments feeling implausible instead of thrilling.

The broader concern extends beyond Alpha itself. Multiple reviewers argue that the YRF Spy Universe has entered the same creative cycle that affected major superhero franchises, where increasingly larger productions deliver diminishing returns because fresh storytelling has given way to interconnected franchise building. Instead of expanding the universe with new ideas, Alpha reinforces concerns that the series has become creatively stagnant.

Audience reactions on social media have echoed that divide. While many viewers praised Alia Bhatt’s commitment, Bobby Deol’s performance and several action sequences, a larger share described the film as predictable, emotionally flat and among the weakest entries in the franchise. Others defended the film as a decent theatrical entertainer, though even many positive reactions acknowledged its familiar storytelling.

Early trade expectations suggested a respectable opening, aided by advance bookings and limited direct competition. Whether the film maintains momentum will likely depend on audience word of mouth, which has so far proved sharply divided.

Ultimately, Alpha succeeds as a polished action spectacle but falls well short as a memorable spy thriller. Its talented cast works hard to elevate the material, yet no amount of stylish choreography, glossy cinematography or franchise cameos can disguise a screenplay that rarely surprises and seldom earns its emotional moments. Rather than reinvigorating the YRF Spy Universe, Alpha serves as another reminder that even blockbuster franchises eventually need stronger stories—not simply bigger explosions.