Nepal’s First Sci-Fi Feature ‘Eklo I,’ Starring Jamie Bacon and Pradeep Khadka, Sets January Release (EXCLUSIVE)

Nepal‘s inaugural science fiction feature film is headed to theaters, with “Eklo I” securing distribution in both its home country and North America.

Apple Entertainment has acquired the film for release in Nepal on Jan. 1, with a limited theatrical rollout in the U.S. and U.K. following on Jan. 9. The film will world premiere Dec. 28 at New York’s Museum of the Moving Image.

Jamie Bacon, whose recent credits include “Mr. Loverman” and “Dreamers,” stars opposite Nepali actor Pradeep Khadka, known for local hits “Kabaddi 4,” “Prem Geet 3” and “Prakash.” Bacon is next 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 in the aftermath of 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 “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 including “Avatar: Fire and Ash.”

Bacon is represented by Link Entertainment and United Agents.