Lokah: Chapter 1: Chandra – A Genre-Defying Film with Folklore

Lokah: Chapter 1: Chandra – A Genre-Defying Film with Folklore

Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra brings Malayalam cinema its first female-led superhero universe, helmed by director Dominic Arun and produced by Dulquer Salmaan’s Wayfarer Films. The film stars Kalyani Priyadarshan in the titular role of Chandra, alongside Naslen, who adds intrigue and camaraderie to the narrative.

In Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra, Kalyani Priyadarshan stars as Chandra, a young woman thrust into the role of a superhero after her father’s mysterious disappearance. As she uncovers latent powers—defying gravity, outrunning bullets, and more—Chandra must rise against dark forces that threaten the balance of the world. The film marks a milestone as Malayalam cinema’s first female-led superhero universe, blending dystopian fantasy with mythological undertones.

The narrative follows Chandra’s journey of self-discovery and transformation. Despite its fantastical elements, the film remains grounded, exploring Chandra’s ancient lineage hinted through visuals like horseback sequences and mystical artifacts. Naslen’s character, Sunny, adds depth to the story as one of the first to discover Chandra’s identity, creating a mix of camaraderie and intrigue.

Kalyani Priyadarshan delivers a commanding performance, anchoring the film with strength, charisma, and emotional depth. Audience reactions to the interval highlight its “goosebump-inducing” impact, a testament to the emotional weight and resonance of the storytelling.

The film excels technically: vivid cinematography and sharp editing craft an immersive dystopian world, while atmospheric music enhances both the emotional and mythical tones. Production design, costumes, and action choreography elevate the experience, particularly in sequences featuring Chandra’s wand and the film’s fantastical visuals.

Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra is a genre-defining leap for Malayalam cinema—richly textured, visually arresting, and emotionally engaging. While some viewers may find the pacing ambitious, the film’s mythology, technical finesse, and Kalyani’s performance make it a standout. The emotionally charged interval and Chandra’s compelling arc set a strong foundation for a promising cinematic universe.