Lokah – Chapter 1: Chandra Review — A Mythic, Female-Led Superhero Leap for Malayalam Cinema

 There’s a fresh breeze blowing through Indian cinema — one that carries myth, scale and a female superhero at its heart. Lokah – Chapter 1: Chandra, directed by Dominic Arun and starring Kalyani Priyadarshan, steps confidently into this space. As Malayalam cinema’s first big-budget female-led superhero film, it sets out to build a universe, not just tell a single story.

In this review I’ll walk you through what works, what doesn’t, and why this film matters — especially in the context of regional Indian cinema aiming for global ambition.

Synopsis (Spoiler-free)

Chandra (Kalyani Priyadarshan) is a young woman whose life takes a dramatic turn when she discovers extraordinary powers and an ancestral legacy. She’s drawn into a web of ancient mythology, urban corruption, and a city that becomes as much a character as she is. When a ruthless officer and systemic injustice emerge, Chandra must embrace her destiny and fight to reclaim balance. 

What Works ✅

1. Bold World-Building & Visuals

The film invests heavily in creating a universe that feels lived in yet larger than life. According to reviews, the production design and cinematography are standout. For example, the cityscape transforms into something almost cyber-mythic — “drenched in searing reds, electric blues and molten orange.” 2. Strong Lead Performance

Kalyani Priyadarshan carries much of the weight, delivering a performance that is intense, grounded and commanding. Critics note she handles the physical action and presence with conviction. 
Her character feels like a milestone — not just for Malayalam cinema but for female representation in the genre.

3. Technical Proficiency

From the music by Jakes Bejoy to the VFX, editing and stunt choreography, the film punches above its budget. Reviewers mention that it feels like a “Rs 300-crore production” despite being more modest in budget. 

4. Fun Supporting Cast & Flair

                                                           

Actors like Naslen K. Gafoor and Chandu Salimkumar bring levity, warmth and help ground the film in relational moments. The antagonistic turn by Sandy Master also gets praise for bringing a palpable threat. 

Where It Falls Short ⚠️

1. Pacing & Narrative Clarity

While the first half keeps you hooked and the production dazzles, some reviewers note the second half drags, and the narrative leaves threads hanging. “What is Chandra’s motive? What is her cult’s goal?” are questions left for future chapters. 

2. Familiar Tropes & Predictability

As much as the film roots itself in local myth, the origin-superhero beats are not entirely new. Some scenes feel derivative of global templates, which can dilute its uniqueness. 

3. Character Depth

While Chandra is well-portrayed, some feel her inner emotional life remains under-explored — and the supporting cast, although competent, sometimes hover around archetypes. One Reddit user put it:

“The characters weren’t explored much… She just felt bland, with no real personality.” 

Why This Film Matters 🎬

• It’s a bold step for Malayalam cinema in the superhero genre, especially centred on a woman hero.

• It shows regional cinema can scale. The film has reportedly crossed major box-office thresholds. 

• It indicates global potential: rooted in local culture, yet reaching across languages and regions.

• From a business/marketing viewpoint, it also signals that audiences are ready for ambition beyond formula.

Final Verdict

If I were to rate it: 3.5 out of 5 stars (which aligns with several critics). 
Lokah – Chapter 1: Chandra is not perfect — it has pacing issues, narrative loose ends and sometimes leans on familiar tropes. But its strengths far outweigh the weaknesses: a standout lead performance, spectacular technical polish and a universe-building ambition that makes it exciting for what comes next.

If you’re a fan of:

• superhero films

• myth-meets-modern storytelling

• female-led action

• visually immersive cinema
  then this film is worth your time.
  Even if you’re sceptical of Indian superhero films, this one shows a regional industry punching above its weight.

Should You Watch It?

Yes, especially on the big screen (the visuals matter).
If you prefer tight storytelling over spectacle, then enter with moderate expectations.
And if you’re curious about where Indian genre cinema is headed — this is a film worth noting.

Looking Ahead

Since the film clearly sets up for future chapters (it labels itself “Chapter 1”), the hope is that the follow-ups will deepen character arcs, sharpen pacing and build on the world established here. For now, Lokah gives us a strong foundation and a reason to stay tuned.

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Bottom line: A bold, cinematic stride for regional superhero cinema — Lokah may not reinvent the wheel, but it spins it with flair. Don’t miss the ride.