Malayalam cinema has always been a treasure trove of unique storytelling, and Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra is no exception. Released on August 28, 2025, this superhero film, directed by Dominic Arun and produced by Dulquer Salmaan, marks a significant milestone as the industry’s first female-led superhero venture. Starring Kalyani Priyadarshan as the enigmatic Chandra, alongside Naslen and a talented ensemble, the movie dives into a vibrant blend of Kerala folklore and modern superhero tropes.
As someone who loves a good cinematic adventure, I walked into the theater with high expectations, and while Lokah delivers on many fronts, it’s not without its flaws. Here’s my take on this ambitious film, broken down into what worked, what didn’t, and why it’s still worth your time.
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A Fresh Superhero Universe Rooted in Folklore
What sets Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra apart is its attempt to carve out a distinct superhero universe by weaving in elements of Kerala’s rich folklore. Set in Bengaluru, the story follows Chandra, a mysterious woman with supernatural abilities, as she navigates a city plagued by organ trafficking and dark secrets. Director Dominic Arun doesn’t just borrow from Western superhero templates; he infuses the narrative with a local flavor that feels both fresh and grounded.
- Mythology Meets Modernity: The film cleverly blends ancient Kerala tales with a futuristic, comic-book aesthetic, creating a world that feels both fantastical and relatable.
- World-Building Done Right: The vibrant visuals—think deep navy blues and starry skies—draw you into the Lokah universe from the opening scene.
- Cultural Resonance: By rooting the story in regional folklore, the film connects with the audience on a deeper, emotional level, unlike many generic superhero flicks.
However, the world-building, while promising, sometimes overshadows the plot. The film spends a lot of time setting up its universe, which leaves the main storyline feeling a bit thin. Still, this is just Chapter 1, so I’m hopeful the sequels will flesh things out.
Kalyani Priyadarshan Shines as Chandra
Kalyani Priyadarshan steps into the spotlight as Malayalam cinema’s first female superhero, and she mostly nails it. Her portrayal of Chandra is a mix of strength and vulnerability, making her a compelling figure. Whether she’s taking down goons in slick action sequences or wrestling with her mysterious past, Kalyani brings a commanding presence to the screen. Her Indo-western costume design—sleek yet rooted in the film’s aesthetic—adds to her larger-than-life persona.
That said, her performance isn’t flawless. Some reviews have pointed out that her emotional range feels limited, with her expressions staying consistent even in intense moments. I noticed this too, especially in quieter scenes where a bit more depth could’ve elevated her character. But for a first-time action hero, she’s undeniably impressive, and I’m excited to see how she grows in future installments.
Naslen and the Supporting Cast Add Heart and Humor
If Kalyani is the film’s backbone, Naslen is its heart. Playing Sunny, a curious and slightly goofy young man who gets entangled in Chandra’s world, he brings a natural charm that lights up the screen. His comedic timing is spot-on, and his chemistry with co-stars Chandu Salimkumar (Venu) and Arun Kurian (Naijil) delivers some of the film’s best moments. Their banter feels authentic, like friends you’d meet at a local hangout, and it keeps the movie grounded amid its fantastical elements.
- Naslen’s Breakout Moment: Fresh off Premalu, Naslen proves he’s more than a one-hit wonder, balancing humor and drama effortlessly.
- Sandy’s Villainous Turn: Choreographer Sandy Master surprises as the corrupt Inspector Nachiyappa Gowda, adding menace to the organ trafficking subplot.
- Cameos That Click: The film sprinkles in some solid cameo appearances that add flavor without stealing focus.
The supporting cast, including veterans like Vijayaraghavan, ensures there’s never a dull moment, though some characters feel underutilized due to the film’s focus on world-building.
Technical Brilliance Steals the Show
One thing everyone agrees on is Lokah’s technical prowess. From Nimish Ravi’s stunning cinematography to Jakes Bejoy’s electrifying background score, the film is a visual and auditory treat. The action sequences are crisp and avoid the usual superhero clichés, while the color grading—vibrant reds and blues—creates a comic-book vibe that’s immersive. The 94-day production schedule clearly paid off, as the film feels polished and ambitious, rivaling Hollywood blockbusters in its presentation.
- Top-Notch CGI: The visual effects, possibly enhanced by AI, give the film a slick, high-budget feel.
- Sound Design: The Atmos mix, as noted by fans, makes watching it in a premium theater a must for the full experience.
- Editing Keeps It Tight: Chaman Chakko’s editing ensures the 151-minute runtime doesn’t drag, though the first half has minor pacing issues.
If you’re a fan of grand visuals and immersive sound, Lokah is best enjoyed in a theater with Dolby Atmos.
Where It Stumbles: A Thin Plot and Familiar Tropes
Despite its strengths, Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra isn’t perfect. The biggest letdown is the script, which prioritizes character introductions and universe-building over a robust plot. Once Chandra’s identity is revealed, the story veers into predictable territory, especially for superhero genre fans. The organ trafficking subplot, while intriguing, feels like a side note rather than a fully fleshed-out conflict. Some twists, meant to be shocking, don’t land as powerfully as intended because they lean on familiar tropes.
Additionally, the film’s ambition sometimes works against it. The first half is engaging, with a goosebumps-inducing interval block, but the second half struggles to maintain that momentum. It’s clear this is a setup for a larger franchise, but I wish the standalone story had a bit more meat. That said, the film’s heart and technical excellence make these flaws forgivable, especially for a first chapter.
Final Thoughts: A Promising Start Worth Watching
Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra is a bold, refreshing addition to Malayalam cinema, proving the industry can tackle big-budget superhero films with a unique voice. Kalyani Priyadarshan and Naslen deliver standout performances, and the technical aspects are nothing short of spectacular. While the script could use more depth and the story feels predictable at times, the film’s world-building, cultural roots, and sheer ambition make it a must-watch. It’s not perfect, but it’s a thrilling glimpse into what could be an exciting cinematic universe. Grab your tickets, preferably at a theater with great sound, and dive into this vibrant superhero world. I’m already looking forward to Chapter 2