Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra is a Malayalam film that is creating waves ever since it was released on August 28. The makers deserve full credit for their imagination and for doing justice to the subject in hand. The first half is a mix of humour, drama and awe. Bengaluru has never been depicted in this manner. The tensions rise in the second half and it also sets the base for an exciting cinematic universe, with the potential to appeal to Pan-India. On the flipside, the second half is where the film gets a bit complicated. Too much information is dished out to the viewers and it becomes a challenge to absorb them all. Moreover, the cameos are exciting, but the appearance of a couple of them is not established at all. Some gaps remain and though they’ll be filled in the next installments, it does affect the impact to some extent. Speaking of performances, Kalyani Priyadarshan has a terrific screen presence and the way she has essayed the lead role is seen to be believed. Naslen is adorable and apt for the part. Another perfect casting is that of Sandy; he’s menacing. Arun Kurian (Naijil) and Chandu Salimkumar (Venu) and others are decent in supporting roles. All in all, Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra deserves a watch for its performances, subject and because it’s a series that is going to be a talking point across the country in the near future.
My rating – *** ½ out of 5!