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Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra backdrop

Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra

6.6
from 4 scored reviews · 1 not rated

Weighted from a 7.3 average · Why?

What critics are saying

Critical reception for Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra is broadly positive, with most reviewers recognizing it as a significant step forward for Malayalam cinema in the superhero genre.

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Dominic Arun DirectorDominic Arun ScreenplaySanthy Balachandran ScreenplayDominic Arun StoryDJ Sekhar MusicJay Unnithan MusicNimish Ravi CinematographyJakes Bejoy Music

The story follows Chandra, a mysterious, goth-influenced woman who has just moved to Bangalore and begins working night shifts at a café. Across the road from her apartment live Sunny and Venu, two aimless bachelors. Sunny becomes infatuated with Chandra, observing her odd routines, strange visitors, and reclusive nature. Their dynamic changes when Sunny gets a glimpse of Chandra in her act.

Critic Consensus

Critical reception for Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra is broadly positive, with most reviewers recognizing it as a significant step forward for Malayalam cinema in the superhero genre. Critics widely praised its world-building ambitions and its grounding in Indian and Kerala folklore, with several calling it among the finest superhero films produced in India. Lead actress Kalyani's performance also drew specific appreciation. The most consistent criticism concerns the screenplay, with at least one reviewer noting the film prioritizes universe setup over a compelling standalone plot, resulting in a weak narrative throughline.

4 rated reviews · 4 positive

Praised: Ambitious Malayalam superhero world-buildingCriticised: Weak plot and script execution

AI-generated summary of 5 critic reviews · may contain errors

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Critic Reviews (5)

Updated
8.0
From folklore to superpowers, Lokah Chapter 1 - Chandra represents Malayalam cinema's boldest leap yet, blending Indian folklore with Hollywood swagger. Converse-clad and channeling her inner Kristen Stewart with panache, Kalyani shines bright in this superhero saga done right.
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Anandu Suresh· Indian Express
8.0
I believe Lokah is one of the finest superhero films India has ever produced. What makes it far better than other massive-budget fantasy spectacles is that its magnificence extends beyond visual brilliance to include impeccable writing, offering an experience like never before.
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Roopa Radhakrishnan· Times Of India
7.0
Lokah is more about gradual but consistent world-building rather than instant payoffs. It lays the groundwork for a superhero cinematic universe in Malayalam cinema, and it does that with sincerity.
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Hari P N· KoiMoi
6.0
The weakest aspect of Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra is its script. Character establishment and world-building seem to be the film's primary purpose, but the issue is that it lacks a solid plot and fails to convey its ideas effectively. It is a commendable attempt at starting a franchise based on indigenous mythological stories of Kerala, however, it could have been executed much better.
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Athira M· The Hindu
Not rated
Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra is a cinematic treat and could even be a lesson for many on how to master the superhero genre. A theatrical experience to be celebrated, Lokah has several stories waiting to be told, as shown in two post-credits scenes. It has definitely laid a solid foundation for a bigger cinematic universe, pushing the envelope for Malayalam cinema.
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Cast & Crew

Cast

Details

Release Date
28 August 2025
Runtime
2h 31m

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