Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra, dubbed as Kotha Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra in Telugu, bursts onto screens as a bold Malayalam superhero saga. It blends ancient folklore with modern thrills. Fans of fantasy action will love its fresh take.
Movie Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Title | Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra (Kotha Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra in Telugu) |
| Release Date | August 28, 2025 (Theatrical) |
| Language & Genre | Malayalam (Telugu Dub); Superhero Fantasy Thriller |
| Director | Dominic Arun |
| Producer | Dulquer Salmaan (Wayfarer Films) |
| Production House | Wayfarer Films, Done Channel 1 |
| Running Time | 151 minutes |
| Budget | ₹30 crore |
| Box Office | ₹303.5 crore (Worldwide) |
This smash hit shattered records as the highest-grossing Malayalam film ever.
Cast and Crew
- Kalyani Priyadarshan as Chandra: The enigmatic lead with supernatural edge.
- Naslen K. Gafoor as Sunny: Curious neighbor who sparks romance and intrigue.
- Sandy Master: Key antagonist in the gritty underworld.
- Supporting: Arun Kurian, Chandu Salim Kumar shine in pivotal roles.
- Cameos: Anna Ben, Soubin Shahir, Ahaana Krishna add star power.
- Voice Over: Mammootty as Moothon.
Kalyani’s debut in this superhero role stands out. Her goth vibe captivates from frame one.
Storyline / Plot Summary (No Spoilers)
Chandra arrives in bustling Bengaluru. She takes night shifts at a cafe. Her mysterious aura draws eyes. Neighbor Sunny grows obsessed. Soon, dark forces pull her into an organ trafficking ring. The film explores hidden powers rooted in folklore. Central conflict? Chandra’s fight for justice amid budding love. Themes of destiny and resistance pulse through. It hooks you fast without big reveals.
Direction, Screenplay, and Editing
Director Dominic Arun crafts a fearless vision. He weaves Malayalam myths into a cinematic universe. Screenplay by Arun and Santhy Balachandran balances action, romance, and lore. Pacing dips slightly mid-way but ramps up thrillingly. Dialogues feel raw and punchy. Editing keeps the 151 minutes taut. Unique technique: Non-linear hints build suspense smartly.
Cinematography, Visuals, and Music
Nimish Ravi’s camera work dazzles. Neon-lit nights and mythic visions pop. VFX rival Hollywood—seamless and grand. Jakes Bejoy’s score pulses with folk beats and epic swells. Songs like “Queen of the Night” amplify emotion. Visuals and music create a haunting, empowering tone. Every frame enhances the supernatural thrill.
Performances
Kalyani Priyadarshan owns the screen. Her fierce yet vulnerable Chandra is iconic. Naslen’s Sunny brings charm and heart—perfect chemistry sparks. Sandy Master chews scenery as the villain. Supporting cast adds depth. Emotional scenes hit hard, especially Chandra’s inner turmoil. Standout: A rain-soaked confrontation brims with power.
Audience and Critics’ Response
| Platform | Rating |
|---|---|
| IMDb | 8.1/10 |
| Rotten Tomatoes | 95% |
| Google Users | 94% liked it |
Critics hail it as a “game-changer” for Indian superhero films. Visuals and world-building win raves. Audiences buzz about Kalyani’s star turn. Social media explodes with fan art. According to online discussions on Movierulz and other film forums, users rave over the storyline twists and performances. Overall sentiment: Euphoric. A cultural phenomenon.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Stunning visuals and top-tier VFX.
- Kalyani’s powerhouse performance.
- Innovative myth-superhero blend.
Weaknesses:
- Minor pacing lulls in second act.
- Some plot conveniences stretch belief.
Final Verdict
Kotha Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra launches an epic universe with style and heart. It redefines Malayalam cinema’s ambition. Superhero fans, myth lovers, and action buffs will devour it. Stream now for a thrilling ride. Personal Rating: 8.5/10