Nepal’s First Sci-Fi Feature ‘Eklo I’ Sets January Release Across Multiple Territories

Nepali cinema is preparing for a historic moment with the release of “Eklo I,” the country’s first science fiction feature film. The ambitious project is set for a domestic theatrical debut on Jan. 1, distributed by Apple Entertainment, with limited theatrical runs in the U.S. and U.K. beginning Jan. 9. The film will world premiere on Dec. 28 at New York’s Museum of the Moving Image.

“Eklo I” stars British actor Jamie Bacon and popular Nepali star Pradeep Khadka, known for his work in regional blockbusters such as Kabaddi 4, Prem Geet 3 and Prakash. Bacon, whose recent credits include Dreamers, will next appear in an upcoming NFL-themed Hulu drama series from Dan Fogelman.

Historic Milestone for Nepal’s Film Industry

Directed by Pradeep Shahi, the film marks a major milestone for Nepal’s expanding cinematic landscape, which has grown rapidly in recent years but lacked large-scale genre storytelling. “Eklo I” achieves a first for the nation by entering the global sci-fi conversation and showcasing Nepal’s culture, landscapes and talent.

Production teams filmed at Himalayan elevations reaching 5,400 meters, approximately 500 meters below the Everest Base Camp. The team captured previously unseen mountain terrain, testing cast and crew with harsh temperatures, steep ascents and limited oxygen.

“This film pushed us to the limit,” Bacon said. “Nothing compares to the altitude and the remote conditions. What the Nepali crew achieved was extraordinary.”

A Post-Pandemic World Set in 2090

Set in the year 2090, the story imagines humanity recovering from the aftermath of a devastating 2030 global pandemic. A team of astronauts returns to Earth and discovers a lone survivor among mysterious cave guardians hidden deep in the Himalayas. The title derives from the Nepali word eklo, meaning “alone.”

Writer-director Shahi describes the narrative as blending Western sci-fi concepts with Nepali spiritual, cultural and environmental influences. The film’s hybrid aesthetic aims to resonate with global audiences while remaining anchored in local identity.

Building Nepal’s Global Screen Ambition

The film’s release signals broader aspirations for Nepali cinema. International distribution of Eklo I aligns with growing interest in South Asian genre projects and Nepal’s emergence as a destination for high-altitude production.

Apple Entertainment recently broadened its international slate, handling releases including Avatar: Fire and Ash. The acquisition demonstrates growing confidence in Nepal’s film infrastructure and audience potential abroad.

The cast also features Kabita Nepali and pilot-turned-actor Vijay Lama, known for appearances in Everest-set adventure films.

Industry observers expect Eklo I to help redefine local production standards, inspire future large-scale projects, and introduce Nepal’s landscapes and mythos to new international viewers. The January release may also signal future participation in global streaming and festival markets.