Kenya is set to make a groundbreaking entry into the science fiction genre with the premiere of “Subterranea,” the country’s first-ever sci-fi series, which will air on Showmax on September 26, 2024.
Directed by the acclaimed Likarion Wainaina, known for his work on “Supa Modo,” this eight-part Showmax Original series promises to explore complex human themes within a unique narrative framework.
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Subterranea’s unique narrative and concept
“Subterranea” is a psychological experiment involving eight participants placed in an underground bunker. The series examines the effects of close-quarter seclusion on human relationships, mainly when a twist of fate leaves them trapped after the world outside ends.
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This premise allows the show to delve into deeply human themes such as family, unity, survival, and mental health, making it relevant to contemporary Kenyan audiences.
Wainaina is keen to point out that sci-fi doesn’t necessarily have to be about the future or gadgets. ” Subterranea depicts how people manage to deal psychologically with certain situations presented to them.
This attempt mainly focuses on diversifying the usually perceived and stereotyped sci-fi approach and making it look almost effortless and feel closer to what audiences went through on Showmax.
Subterranea’s cast and production
The series has recruited a prestigious list of talents, including the topmost Kalasha winners: Foi Wambui, Peter Kawa, and Nice Githinji. It includes Melvin Alusa and Melissa Kiplagat, nominated for the Kalasha awards, and first-time actor Philippa Ndisi-Herrmann, a filmmaker and actress.
This is because a diverse cast fosters more talent and experience, thus having the perspective of attracting many viewers on Showmax.
Directed and produced by Kibanda Pictures, “Subterranea” is a significant investment in Kenyan cinema and exciting proof of its progressive film-telling capability in various genres.
The series is intended to create a benchmark for subsequent Kenyan series to follow, leading more producers to create other series, especially in the ignored areas of Kenyan society.
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Addressing relevant themes on Showmax
Although ‘Subterranea’ is a sci-fi film, it contains socially relevant issues relevant to Kenyan society. Some of the themes that the show’s creator, Brian Munene, wanted to address and, unfortunately, does not see much airtime in mainstream media are mental health, postpartum depression in men, and PTSD of armed force personnel, among others.
Thus, the themes covered in “Subterranea” intend to provoke discussions on vital social issues among the viewers on the Showmax platform.
That is notable for Kenya’s television and science fiction writing. Through its creative storyline, talented cast, and choice of themes that require attention, the series guarantees viewers’ interest and paves the way for further developments in storytelling in Kenya.
The prospect of the series increases viewers’ excitement about what it could potentially bring to the country’s film and television market.