In a bold move, Yash Raj Films (YRF) has reportedly declined a massive ₹215 crore OTT offer for its upcoming spy thriller Alpha, opting instead for a full-fledged theatrical release.

Big-Screen First Strategy

The film, headlined by Alia Bhatt, is scheduled to release in cinemas in April 2027.

By turning down such a lucrative digital deal, YRF has signaled strong confidence in:

The film’s theatrical potential
The expanding brand value of the YRF Spy Universe
Audience appetite for big-scale action spectacles

A Landmark Move in the Spy Universe

Alpha marks a significant shift in the franchise’s direction. While the YRF Spy Universe has traditionally been led by male superstars, this project is positioned as a female-led espionage drama.

This makes Alpha:

One of YRF’s most ambitious ventures
A major step toward diversifying the spy universe
A high-stakes theatrical gamble backed by strong studio belief

Why Reject the OTT Deal?

Industry observers suggest YRF’s decision may be driven by:

Confidence in box office performance
The scale and cinematic experience of the film
Long-term franchise value over short-term digital gains

The rejection of a ₹215 crore offer underscores the studio’s strategy to prioritize theatrical dominance.

What’s Next?

With Alpha set for an April 2027 theatrical release, expectations are sky-high. The move has already generated industry buzz, and all eyes are now on how this ambitious addition to the YRF Spy Universe performs on the big screen.

YRF’s decision sends a clear message — some stories are meant to be experienced in cinemas.