1 September, Monday: Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra is one of the most hyped films of the season, receiving both crowd and filmmaker applause. Written by Dominic Arun and starring Kalyani Priyadarshan, the unusual superhero movie has already earned ₹63 crore at the international box office, according to reports quoted by The Indian Express.
Filmmakers respond to Lokah's success
Industry circles have been quick to hail the Malayalam hit. Renowned director Sanjay Gupta went on social media, labeling it as "the best Indian film in the last few years," and asking people to hurry to cinema halls.
In the meanwhile, Kalyani's dad, veteran filmmaker Priyadarshan, spoke of his joy in an interview as per the report by The Indian Express. He disclosed that his daughter rarely speaks to him about her projects and he further stated that, "She is the kind of person who will update you on her latest projects only after wrapping them up and showing up at home."
A milestone for Malayalam cinema
Directed by Dulquer Salmaan's Wayfarer Studios, the movie weaves Kerala's cultural heritage with superhero fiction. The Indian Express pointed out that its genre combination that is different, neon-lit visuals, and performance have been reasons why it is a landmark in Malayalam cinema, particularly as one of the first female-centric superhero blockbusters by the industry.
With rave reviews and box office power, Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra is being touted as the beginning of a franchise with the sequel rumored to have actor Tovino Thomas playing the lead role.
As The Indian Express noted, the film's success represents a bold stride for regional cinema's international outreach.