A fearless new benchmark for Malayalam cinema
Lokah - Chapter 1: Chandra is proof that you don't need a massive budget to create a true superhero spectacle. Dominic Arun's direction and Dulquer Salmaan's backing bring a fresh, daring vision to the screen-and it lands.
The world-building is rich and immersive, blending myth and modern day in a way that feels both rooted and futuristic. The action sequences are gripping, and the visuals-thanks to Nimish Ravi's striking cinematography and Jithu Sebastian's art direction-look nothing short of world-class. Jakes Bejoy's background score pulses through the film, keeping the energy high from start to finish.
At the heart of it all is Kalyani Priyadarshan, who completely owns the role and wears the cape as India's first female superhero. She brings strength, charm, and depth to Chandra in a way that makes you root for her instantly. Naslen, Arun Kurian, Chandu Salim kumar, Sandy, Vijayaraghavan, Nishanth Sagar and the rest of the supporting cast deliver strong performances and keep the momentum alive. The humour was organic, never forced, and balances the heavier moments beautifully. The surprise cameos had my theatre erupting-what a brilliant casting!
In the end, Lokah - Chapter 1: Chandra demonstrates that vision, craft, and commitment can outweigh sheer budget. It is not only a bold first step in an ambitious superhero universe but also a reminder that Malayalam cinema continues to redefine the boundaries of what Indian films can achieve. With works like this, it's clear that Mollywood is on its right path to becoming the face of Indian cinema.
The world-building is rich and immersive, blending myth and modern day in a way that feels both rooted and futuristic. The action sequences are gripping, and the visuals-thanks to Nimish Ravi's striking cinematography and Jithu Sebastian's art direction-look nothing short of world-class. Jakes Bejoy's background score pulses through the film, keeping the energy high from start to finish.
At the heart of it all is Kalyani Priyadarshan, who completely owns the role and wears the cape as India's first female superhero. She brings strength, charm, and depth to Chandra in a way that makes you root for her instantly. Naslen, Arun Kurian, Chandu Salim kumar, Sandy, Vijayaraghavan, Nishanth Sagar and the rest of the supporting cast deliver strong performances and keep the momentum alive. The humour was organic, never forced, and balances the heavier moments beautifully. The surprise cameos had my theatre erupting-what a brilliant casting!
In the end, Lokah - Chapter 1: Chandra demonstrates that vision, craft, and commitment can outweigh sheer budget. It is not only a bold first step in an ambitious superhero universe but also a reminder that Malayalam cinema continues to redefine the boundaries of what Indian films can achieve. With works like this, it's clear that Mollywood is on its right path to becoming the face of Indian cinema.
- gth1n
- 29 ago 2025