Charlize Theron’s 2017 film *Atomic Blonde* is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, now streaming on HBO Max. Nearly a decade after its theatrical release, the spy thriller has climbed to the number one spot on Warner Bros. Discovery’s platform as of March 2025.
The film, directed by David Leitch and based on the graphic novel *The Coldest City* by Antony Johnston and Sam Hart, features Theron portraying MI6 agent Lorraine Broughton. The cast includes notable actors such as James McAvoy as David Percival, John Goodman as Emmett Kurzfeld, Toby Jones as Eric Gray, Eddie Marsan as Spyglass, and Sofia Boutella as Delphine Lasalle. In addition to her acting role, Theron also served as an executive producer on the project.
With a production budget of $30 million, *Atomic Blonde* grossed $100 million worldwide, marking it as a commercial success for Focus Features. The film earned approximately $51.6 million in the United States and an additional $48.4 million internationally.
Critics have offered mixed reviews, highlighting the film’s engaging action sequences while noting some shortcomings in its screenplay. In a review for ScreenRant, critic Chris Agar remarked that *Atomic Blonde* “makes for a solid time at the theater,” though it “fails to realize its full potential.” On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a critics’ score of 79%, while audience reactions reflect a more tempered enthusiasm, with a 64% rating on the Popcornmeter.
Despite the film’s success, plans for a sequel have yet to materialize. Both Theron and Leitch have expressed interest in developing a follow-up, potentially as a Netflix Original. Discussions about *Atomic Blonde 2* have been ongoing, but there has been no official confirmation of its production.
As audiences revisit or discover *Atomic Blonde* for the first time on HBO Max, the film continues to resonate, showcasing Theron’s compelling performance and the intense action that has captivated viewers since its initial release.