Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra Movie Review – A Bold New Step for Indian Cinema

Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra is a 2025 Malayalam-language superhero film directed by Dominic Arun and produced by Dulquer Salmaan under Wayfarer Films. Unlike typical Indian superhero films, this one dives deep into Kerala’s folklore while giving it a modern, fantasy-thriller twist.

The story follows a young woman (played brilliantly by Kalyani Priyadarshan) who discovers her mystical powers while struggling with personal challenges. As darkness rises, she must accept her destiny and face evil forces in a rapidly changing world.

Lokah Chapter 1 – The Beginning of a Cinematic Universe

Performances – Kalyani Priyadarshan Shines Bright

The highlight of Lokah Chapter 1 is Kalyani Priyadarshan’s stunning performance. She brings vulnerability, strength, and emotional depth to Chandra, making the audience root for her journey. The supporting cast adds value, but it’s Kalyani who shoulders the film with confidence.

Direction and Storytelling

Dominic Arun deserves credit for his world-building. Instead of rushing into action, he patiently sets up the story, characters, and mood. The film blends folklore, mythology, and superhero themes in a way that feels fresh for Indian cinema.

While the pacing is a bit slow in the first half, the second half picks up with gripping sequences, emotional highs, and powerful visuals. The climax, however, feels slightly restrained compared to the build-up.

Behind-the-Scenes & Unknown Facts

• Dulquer Salmaan took a huge risk financing this fantasy project, proving his commitment to experimental cinema.
  
• Kalyani Priyadarshan underwent months of physical training for the role.
  
• Several action sequences were filmed in remote forest locations in Kerala to capture authentic visuals.
  
• The makers hinted at Lokah Chapter 2 being even bigger in scale, laying the foundation for a full-fledged superhero universe in Malayalam cinema.

Ups and Downs

Ups

• Strong performance by Kalyani Priyadarshan
  
• Unique blend of folklore and superhero storytelling
  
• Engaging direction by Dominic Arun
  
• Beautiful cinematography and music
  
• A fresh attempt at building a Malayalam cinematic universe
  

Downs

• Budget limitations visible in some VFX-heavy scenes
  
• Slightly slow-paced first half
  

Final resolution feels underwhelming compared to the buildup

Audience and Critics’ Review

Audiences across Kerala and beyond are calling it a “rare gem in Malayalam cinema.” Many hailed it as the best Indian superhero film in years, while critics praised its ambition and storytelling.

• IMDb Rating: 8.4/10
  
• Google Audience Score: 4.6/5
  

Viewers applauded the film for being organic, emotional, and culturally rooted, unlike most formulaic superhero films.

Box Office Collections & Records

Lokah Chapter 1 opened to packed theatres and positive word-of-mouth. Within its opening weekend, the film grossed ₹45 crore worldwide, an impressive number for a Malayalam film. By the end of its first week, it had crossed ₹75 crore, making it one of the highest-grossing Malayalam films of 2025.

The movie also set a record for the biggest opening for a female-led Malayalam film.

Bollywood Movie Revisit Connection

Interestingly, Lokah Chapter 1 has sparked discussions among Bollywood fans too. With its unique storytelling, many believe Bollywood could revisit its own superhero attempts (like Krrish and Ra.One) and learn from this Malayalam masterpiece.

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Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra is not just a Malayalam film; it’s a cinematic event that dares to merge folklore with superhero storytelling. With Kalyani Priyadarshan at the heart of it, this Dominic Arun directorial sets the stage for a new cinematic universe in India.

⭐ Highlights: Lokah Chapter 1 Review

• Lokah Chapter 1 marks a bold experiment in Indian cinema.
  
• Kalyani Priyadarshan delivers her career-best performance.
  
• Critics and audiences shower unanimous love.
  
• A record-breaking box office run.
  
• Sets the stage for a Malayalam superhero universe.

Conclusion – A Must-Watch Superhero Fantasy

Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra is more than a movie. It is a visionary step for Malayalam and Indian cinema. While not perfect, it wins hearts with its ambition, emotional depth, and cultural richness. For fans of superhero films, folklore, or just powerful performances, this is a must-watch.

⭐ Rating: 4/5