Atomic is a high-octane new five-part Sky Original series streaming on Sky Atlantic and NOW in the UK. It follows Max (Alfie Allen), a carefree drug smuggler, who crosses paths with JJ (Shazad Latif), an enigmatic outsider on the run. Their collision course sees them inadvertently become couriers for highly enriched uranium — sparking a dangerous road trip across North Africa and the Middle East. Hounded by the CIA, MI6, and a cartel, the duo’s survival hinges on trust, redemption, and unlikely bromance under dire stakes.
We spoke to Allen and Latif who praised Atomic’s blend of explosive action, sharp humour, and beautifully cinematic visuals. Shot entirely on location in Morocco, the production skillfully transformed Moroccan cities and landscapes into diverse North African and Middle Eastern settings — from sprawling deserts to bustling medinas. They also highlighted its thoughtful approach to representation, steering clear of clichés and offering richer, more human portrayals of characters typically stereotyped.
Off-camera, Allen and Latif’s chemistry was bolstered by time spent together exploring Marrakesh, bonding over football (both Arsenal fans), and watching the Euros during down time in Morocco. Though Atomic was originally conceived as a miniseries, its continuation will depend on reception — but as of now, it premieres in the UK on 28 August 2025.
