Nepal's inaugural science fiction feature film, "Eklo I," is about to hit the big screens, with distribution secured not only in its homeland but also in North America. Apple Entertainment has acquired the film for a January 1 release in Nepal, followed by a limited theatrical rollout in the U.S. and the U.K. on January 9th. The world premiere will take place on December 28th at the Museum of the Moving Image in New York.
Jamie Bacon, who recently appeared in "Mr. Loverman" and "Dreamers," stars alongside Nepali actor Pradeep Khadka, known for local hits like "Kabaddi 4," "Prem Geet 3," and "Prakash." Bacon is set to appear in Dan Fogelman's upcoming NFL drama series for Hulu.
Directed by Pradeep Shahi, "Eklo I" represents a significant milestone for Nepali cinema as the country's first science fiction feature. The production filmed at elevations reaching 5,400 meters in the Himalayas - approximately 500 meters below Everest Base Camp - capturing previously unfilmed regions of the mountain range. Set in 2090, after a 2030 global pandemic, the story follows astronauts returning to Earth who discover a lone survivor and mysterious guardians concealed in Himalayan caves. The Nepali word 'eklo' translates as 'alone' in English.
"This film pushed us to the limit," Bacon said. "The locations, the altitude - nothing compares. What the Nepali crew achieved was extraordinary."
The cast also features Kabita Nepali and Vijay Lama, known for their work on "Everest." Director Shahi described the project as blending Western and Nepali storytelling influences, marking new territory for the country's film industry.
Apple Entertainment has been expanding its international distribution slate, recently handling releases such as "Avatar: Fire and Ash." Bacon is represented by Link Entertainment and United Agents.
