Kenyan director Likarion Wainaina, celebrated for his award-winning film Supa Modo, is set to captivate audiences once again with his latest venture, Subterranea. This highly anticipated science fiction series will premiere on Showmax, and while it falls under the sci-fi umbrella, Wainaina promises a narrative that leans heavily on psychological exploration rather than the futuristic tropes commonly associated with the genre.
Rethinking Science Fiction
“In Kenya, and maybe other places, there’s this misconception that sci-fi always means futuristic or lots of laser guns,” Wainaina explains. “But sci-fi can also be about exploring the impact of actual or imagined science on human psychology or behaviour. That is what Subterranea is all about.” Rather than presenting a future filled with technological wonders, the series will delve into how scientific concepts and their implications affect the lives and minds of its characters.
Subterranea sets itself apart by focusing on the psychological dimensions of science fiction. Wainaina’s approach highlights the genre’s versatility, shifting away from the stereotypical imagery of spaceships and advanced weaponry. The series instead invites viewers to engage with the nuanced ways science intersects with human experience, emotions, and societal norms.
A Stellar Cast and Fresh Faces
The series boasts an impressive ensemble cast featuring award-winning actors such as Foi Wambui, known for her role in Crime and Justice, and Peter Kawa from County 49. Nice Githinji, who captivated audiences in The Caller, also joins the cast, alongside notable nominees Melvin Alusa and Melissa Kiplagat, both from Country Queen. Adding a new dynamic, filmmaker Philippa Ndisi-Herrmann makes her acting debut, and she is joined by Makena Kahuha (Kina), Biko Nyongesa (Sense8), and Pauline Komu (Groove Theory). Dadson Gakenga, winner of the Kenyan Theatre Awards for Subira, and newcomer Chintu Chudasama round out the diverse and talented cast.
This impressive lineup promises a rich tapestry of performances that will bring the series’ complex themes to life. Each actor’s unique background and experience contribute to Subterranea‘s commitment to showcasing a range of Kenyan talent, both established and emerging.
A Collaboration of Visionaries
Subterranea is a Kibanda Pictures production, co-produced by Wainaina and series creator Brian Munene, with Martin Kigondu (County 49) and Arnold Mwanjila (Taliya) contributing as additional writers. This creative team brings a wealth of experience and a shared passion for storytelling that pushes boundaries and challenges conventional narratives.
Munene elaborates on the thematic core of the series, highlighting its exploration of societal issues often overlooked in mainstream Kenyan media. “There are also themes of broken institutions and mental health,” he notes. “We dug deeper and asked ourselves: ‘What are some issues in Kenyan society that we normally don’t see on TV?’ So Subterranea explores issues such as male postpartum depression, PTSD among our armed forces, and cults in Kenya and their impact on followers.”
By addressing these rarely discussed topics, Subterranea not only entertains but also sparks essential conversations about mental health and the challenges faced by many in Kenyan society. The series aims to shed light on the often invisible struggles that shape people’s lives, bringing these critical issues to the forefront of public discourse.
A New Chapter for Kenyan Television
Subterranea promises to be a groundbreaking addition to Kenyan television, pushing the boundaries of the sci-fi genre while rooted in the complexities of real human experiences. With its psychological focus, stellar cast, and a dedication to exploring uncharted societal issues, the series stands poised to resonate deeply with viewers.
As Showmax prepares to unveil Subterranea, audiences can look forward to a series that not only redefines science fiction in a Kenyan context but also reflects the diverse and multifaceted narratives of modern Kenya. With Likarion Wainaina at the helm and a powerhouse team of creatives, Subterranea is set to be an extraordinary journey into the depths of human psychology and the unexamined corners of societal norms.
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