Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra

The film stakes a bold claim as a female led superhero spectacle in Malayalam cinema, with Kalyani Priyadarshan at the centre. Many critics hail it as one of Indian cinema's finer efforts in this genre. It draws deeply from regional folklore (particularly Kerala myth), giving more texture than many generic superhero films that simply graft visual spectacle onto thin mythic bones.

The production values visual effects, cinematography, design are consistently praised. For example, the film's world building and visuals are described as "opulent", "immersive" and "a visual treat".

The supporting cast and character work also receive positive mentions: Naslen K. Gafoor as the side kick/ordinary guy works well, and the antagonistic threads (organ trafficking, corruption) give the film some socio political grit.

While the visuals and ambition are strong, you feel the script and pacing let it down. The first half is frequently described as sluggish, the film takes the scenic route instead of diving straight into the action or conflict. Some of the humour and comic relief don't always land, and the background score/music, although competent, is felt to not reach the level of iconic that such a large scale film aims for.

As a foundation for a planned cinematic universe, it makes many of the right moves like post credit teases, cameos, setting up bigger things to come. It isn't just another good movie; it's the foundation of a cinematic universe.

If you're looking for a superhero film from Malayalam cinema that raises the bar in terms of scale, ambition and local cultural flavour, Lokah Chapter 1 Chandra delivers. The film may not be flawless, but its strengths outweigh the weaknesses.

Lokah was hyped like a cinematic revolution, but all that over-the-top promotion set it up for failure. It promised the moon and delivered a pebble-a well-decorated letdown.

Watched it. Felt nothing. Moved on.

Kalyani reigned as the emotionless queen-her presence poised, but curiously hollow. Chandu Salimkumar, with his trademark deadpan delivery, mined more laughs from stillness than the script did from wit. And Naslen? Predictably consistent in his minimal-expression strategy-a familiar face doing familiar things, neither offending nor elevating. It's a cast that moves, but rarely stirs.

Lokah Chapter One: Chandra feels like a strong step towards showing how the Malayalam film industry can make its mark in the PAN-Indian space-without losing its own unique style of storytelling. While Mollywood has given us gems before, this film feels different. It isn't just another good movie; it's the foundation of a cinematic universe.

The film stands out as a brilliant fusion of Indian rural folklore with international myths, giving us a refreshing take on the superhero genre. The characters are written with depth, each having their own arc and purpose, setting a solid template for how superhero films can truly work for the Indian audience.

One of the highlights is the way it handles star cameos. They aren't throwaway appearances but meaningful roles that add to the narrative. The movie also avoids the common trap of dragging its ending or forcing cliffhangers. Instead, it delivers a satisfying conclusion while teasing its future through cleverly placed post-credit scenes.

Overall, Lokah Chapter One: Chandra is an engaging, entertaining superhero film packed with surprises, heart, and vision. A must-watch for anyone who loves well-crafted cinema.

Back in 2017, Dominic Arun exhibited promise as a filmmaker with Tharangam, an unconventional fantasy black comedy that didn't make a lot of money but captured the attention of the ardent filmgoer. Lokah: Chapter One - Chandra is the director's second outing, and this time, he strikes GOLD! The immediate post-watch feeling was a craving to watch the next chapters unfold rather quickly. We're subjected to a universe that's brimming with unimaginable possibilities, fascinating characters, and immersive lore. Chapter One works solidly as both an origin story and an in-between adventure characterized by a neon-filled aesthetic (even if it's set in Bangalore), comprising characters that we can connect to.

Kalyani Priyadarshan is a great choice for the titular character, and while she isn't required to emote a whole lot, her stature and prowess in the action set pieces really help. Naslen, however, with his candid expressions and taking on the audience's perspective, is PERFECT. He embodies the curious guy-next-door to the T, making Sunny's camaraderie with Chandra extremely fun to watch. Chandu Salimkumar and Arun Kurian are good too, especially the former, with some of his dad's signature expressions. Sandy is excellent as the main baddie, with a menacing stare and a stance that makes him easy to despise. There are some really cool cameos in store, in case you haven't exposed yourself to all the names in the cast already. The cameos have their natural space within the universe, possibly taking on full-fledged roles in the upcoming instalments.

Special shoutout to Durga C. Vinod as young Chandra; she was riveting in that pre-interval scene. Now, the finished product wouldn't be as good if not for some of these top-tier names within the crew: DoP Nimish Ravi, who makes this world look so vibrant and engaging; Editor Chaman Chakko with some amazingly cool transitions; Composer Jakes Bejoy who once again delivers a banger of a soundtrack; and Stunt Director Yannick Ben for making Chandra look absolutely badass in the action blocks. Loved the costume designs by Melwy J and Archana Akhil, alongside Banglan's production design.

My only major screenplay gripe concerns a party scene in the first half, where a cop lets a group of youngsters go scot-free after catching them with weed at an apartment. Okay, letting that slide since the same scene also features a dashing Kalyani (in a white dress) walking into the apartment with Ilayaraja's 'Kiliye Kiliye' remix playing in the background. Also, even when we call this Chapter One, there are way too many seeds planted already, making the film a thread-opener without offering any sort of closure. At least now, can people shut up about female actors NOT being able to pull off solid action in Malayalam? That too, in an era where lavish budgets are spent on creating "pan-Indian" action spectacles that often end up as debacles.

I just finished watching Lokah, and honestly, it was a fantastic experience from start to finish. It is rare to come across a movie that keeps you hooked from the very first frame till the end credits, but this one absolutely did that. The film was not only entertaining, but it also managed to give a sense of scale and excitement that I have hardly seen in Malayalam cinema before.

The cinematography is one of the biggest highlights. Every frame feels rich, detailed, and thoughtfully crafted. It makes you want to pause and just take in the visuals. The music is another strong point, it builds tension when required, gives goosebumps in the right places, and adds so much to the overall energy of the film. Together, the visuals and sound carry the audience on a thrilling ride.

The cameos deserve a special mention. They were surprising, powerful, and had the whole theatre buzzing. It was one of those moments that makes you cheer as a fan, and it was handled perfectly without feeling forced.

The villain is also extremely well-written and acted. A strong villain is what makes a hero shine brighter, and Lokah gets that balance spot on. The presence, dialogue, and performance all left a lasting impression.

More than anything, what stood out to me was how ambitious this film felt. It is not just another movie, it feels like a milestone. The scale, the creativity, and the way it has been put together really push the Malayalam film industry to another level. It shows what is possible when vision and execution come together so well.

Overall, Lokah is a must-watch. It is thrilling, grand, and incredibly entertaining. For me, this is "levels."