New Delhi: Filmmaker Karan Johar lauded Alia Bhatt-starrer Alpha and the actor's "stardom, theatrical pull and unquestionable talent" as he urged audiences to watch the film.
Johar shared a note on his Instagram Story on Saturday and praised Bhatt's stardom. His comments come after the mixed reviews of the actor's latest film, Alpha. Released on Friday, the film is directed by Shiv Rawail and is described as the first female-led film in Yash Raj Films' interconnected Spy Universe.
It collected over Rs 17 crore on its opening day at the global box office.
"When footfalls are a challenge, Alpha takes a solid start… It emphasises many things… the audience is way above online negativity, and they are the true warriors", he wrote.
"The stardom, theatrical pull and unquestionable talent of Alia Bhatt, along with the impact of a big-screen spectacle, is undebatable. YRF has continued to build franchises and create theatrical tentpole experiences that deserve our applause, not toxicity. So please relax and celebrate that cinemas are breathing. Go watch Alpha and stop doomscrolling", he added.
Also featuring Sharvari, the film follows two elite agents, played by Bhatt and Sharvari, who embark on a high-stakes mission to take on a dangerous adversary portrayed by Bobby Deol.
The cast also includes Anil Kapoor in a pivotal role, while Hrithik Roshan reprises his role as super-spy Kabir Dhaliwal in a special appearance.
Alpha is the latest addition to Yash Raj Films' Spy Universe, which includes Ek Tha Tiger, Tiger Zinda Hai, War, Pathaan, Tiger 3 and War 2.
The film was released in theatres across the country on Friday in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu.