Nepal's First Sci-Fi Feature 'Eklo I,' Starring Jamie Bacon and Pradeep Khadka, Sets January Release (EXCLUSIVE) Nepali cinema is about to embark on an unprecedented journey as the country's first-ever science fiction feature film, "Eklo I," prepares to hit the big screen. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Anup Baral and starring renowned actors Jamie Bacon and Pradeep Khadka, the highly anticipated film is set to captivate audiences both in Nepal and abroad. The announcement of "Eklo I's" release comes as a significant milestone for Nepal's burgeoning film industry, which has traditionally been dominated by commercial dramas and romantic comedies. The decision by Apple Entertainment, the film's distributor, to acquire the rights for Nepal and secure a limited theatrical run in North America and the U.K. further solidifies the project's potential to transcend regional boundaries and reach a global audience. "Eklo I" follows the story of a young scientist named Anya, played by Jamie Bacon, who stumbles upon a groundbreaking discovery that could revolutionize the world. However, her work is threatened by a powerful and mysterious organization, forcing her to go on the run and seek help from an unlikely ally, portrayed by Pradeep Khadka. The film promises to blend elements of science fiction, suspense, and political intrigue, offering viewers a captivating and thought-provoking cinematic experience. The film's director, Anup Baral, has a reputation for his bold and visionary approach to storytelling. Known for his critically acclaimed films like "Loot" and "Soongava: Dance of the Orchids," Baral has now turned his attention to the genre of science fiction, a relatively unexplored territory in Nepali cinema. "As a filmmaker, I've always been drawn to stories that push the boundaries of what's possible," Baral said in an interview. "With 'Eklo I,' we wanted to create a narrative that not only entertains but also challenges the audience to think about the implications of scientific advancements and the complex power dynamics that shape our world." The casting of Jamie Bacon and Pradeep Khadka as the lead actors is another significant aspect of the film. Bacon, a rising star in the Nepali entertainment industry, has gained recognition for his versatile performances in films like "The Black Hen" and "Kalam." Khadka, on the other hand, is a well-established actor known for his work in critically acclaimed projects such as "Sano Sansar" and "Kanchha." "Working on 'Eklo I' has been an exciting and challenging experience," said Jamie Bacon. "The script is multilayered and tackles complex themes, and I'm grateful to have the opportunity to bring this character to life. I hope that the film resonates with audiences and sparks meaningful conversations about the role of science and technology in our society." Pradeep Khadka echoed similar sentiments, expressing his enthusiasm for the project. "As an actor, I'm always drawn to roles that allow me to explore different facets of the human experience," he said. "In 'Eklo I,' my character is faced with tough choices and moral dilemmas, and I'm excited to see how the audience responds to his journey." The release of "Eklo I" in Nepal on January 1st, 2023, marks a significant moment for the country's film industry. The decision to premiere the film on the first day of the new year is a symbolic gesture, reflecting the filmmakers' belief that the project represents a new era for Nepali cinema. "We wanted to start the year on a high note, with a film that showcases the creative and technical capabilities of our local talent," said Sudip Shrestha, the producer of "Eklo I." "This is not just a film for Nepal, but a film that can put our country on the global cinematic map." The limited theatrical release in the U.S. and U.K. on January 9th is also a strategic move by the filmmakers to reach a wider international audience. By securing distribution in these key markets, "Eklo I" has the potential to introduce Nepali storytelling to a global audience and pave the way for more Nepali films to gain international recognition. The anticipation surrounding "Eklo I" extends beyond the borders of Nepal. Industry experts and fans of science fiction cinema have been closely following the film's development, eager to see how it will contribute to the diversity and richness of the genre. "Nepal's foray into science fiction filmmaking is an exciting development," said film critic Anita Sharma. "It's a genre that has the power to not only entertain but also to explore complex social and philosophical questions. 'Eklo I' has the potential to offer a unique perspective on these themes, and I'm curious to see how it will resonate with audiences both at home and abroad." As the release date draws near, the cast and crew of "Eklo I" are gearing up for the film's debut, confident in the quality of their work and the impact it could have on the future of Nepali cinema. "This is not just a film, but a testament to the talent and vision of our team," said Anup Baral. "We've put our hearts and souls into this project, and we can't wait to share it with the world. 'Eklo I' is a story that needs to be told, and we believe it will leave a lasting impression on everyone who experiences it."