Directed by Dominic Arun and co-written with Santhy Balachandran, Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra (2025) marks Malayalam cinema’s ambitious leap into a homegrown superhero universe. Produced by Dulquer Salmaan under Wayfarer Films, it introduces Chandra—a woman discovering supernatural powers and stepping into the role of a superhero—on a mission that intertwines folklore with modern-day urban grit.
A trailblazer in its genre, the film is celebrated as Malayalam cinema’s first female-led superhero saga.
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Plot & Symbolism
Chandra arrives in Bengaluru following a personal setback tied to her father’s mysterious disappearance, stepping into a web of criminal activity including organ trafficking. The narrative builds around her enigmatic presence and the slowly unraveling mythological tapestry that gives her powers real-world purpose and emotional weight.
Performances & Characterization
Kalyani Priyadarshan delivers a commanding performance as Chandra, oscillating between quiet introspection and intense action with nuance—frequently cited as one of her most powerful portrayals yet. Her interval reveal has generated a wave of audience “goosebumps,” further cementing her impact.
Sandy, as the nefarious Inspector Nachiyappa Gowda, infuses chilling menace into the film, embodying systemic evil with chilling clarity. Supporting actors Naslen, Chandu Salimkumar, and Arun Kurian bring levity through well-timed humour that balances the film’s darker motifs.
World-Building & Technical Craft
“Lokah” excels in transporting its audience to a visually rich, nearly cyberpunk Bengaluru—glowing in reds, electric blues, and moonlit frames that reinforce the mystical tone. Nimish Ravi’s cinematography elevates every frame, while Jakes Bejoy’s score intensifies emotional beats with precision.
The film’s world feels organic rather than overtly fantastical. Elements rooted in Kerala’s folklore—ethereal, fierce, and culturally resonant—are seamlessly embedded in Chandra’s origin and the narrative fabric.
Pacing & Narrative Flow
Though the first half is tightly paced and action-forward, several critics note the second half, especially the finale, drifts into rushed territory, with pacing slowing during mid-sequence exposition and franchise setup. Some moments rely on predictable superhero beats, but the film’s strong craft and vision keep audiences engaged throughout.
Box Office & Reception
- By Day 5, the film had netted over ₹31 crore in India and around ₹45 crore globally.
- Continued momentum pushed collections closer to ₹39 crore by early September.
- The film quickly emerged as one of the highest-grossing Malayalam films of 2025, propelled by strong word-of-mouth and multilingual releases.
- Celebrities and filmmakers praised the film for its bold vision, world-building, and fresh storytelling.
- A piracy leak shortly after release caused concern, though the film’s performance remained robust.
Final Thoughts
Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra is a visually stunning, culturally rich entry into the superhero genre from Malayalam cinema—grounded in local myths while donning the cape with bold style. Kalyani Priyadarshan’s commanding presence, the vivid world-building, and the haunting folklore-driven narrative offer a rare homegrown spectacle.
Though it follows familiar tropes and stumbles slightly in its narrative pacing, the ambition on display—both conceptually and artistically—signals the promising birth of a cinematic universe rooted in Indian storytelling traditions.
For fans of mythology-infused fantasy, strong female leads, and audacious cinematic visions, this is one to catch on the big screen.
Disclaimer:
This review of Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra is based on publicly available information, critical opinions, and audience feedback. The views expressed are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not represent official statements from the film’s cast, crew, or production team. Box office figures mentioned are approximate and may vary. Readers are encouraged to watch the film and form their own opinions.
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