Lokah director Dominic Arun opens up on surprise success, confirms work on Chapter 2

Director Dominic Arun has opened up about the unexpected box office success of Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra and shared a key update on the much-awaited sequel. Speaking at a recent roundtable interaction, Arun confirmed that work on Lokah Chapter 2 is officially underway, even as creative pressure mounts following the first film’s historic run.

Reflecting on the overwhelming response, Arun admitted that the scale of success took him by surprise. “This kind of reception was never part of the plan. I only wanted to make a film I would personally enjoy watching,” he told The Hollywood Reporter India. He added that box office expectations were never part of his creative process while developing the first chapter.

The filmmaker explained that his goal was to evoke the emotional highs of superhero cinema, but through a lens rooted in his own sensibilities rather than conventional formulas. This distinct approach, combined with strong world-building and folklore-inspired storytelling, helped the film strike a chord with audiences across languages after its Tamil and Telugu dubbed releases.

Released during the Onam season, Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra went on to cross Rs 300 crore at the box office, becoming the highest-grossing Malayalam film to date. The film featured Kalyani Priyadarshan in a key role, with Naslen and Sandy in supporting parts, along with cameo appearances by Tovino Thomas and Dulquer Salmaan. Veteran actor Mammootty lent his voice to the project and is expected to be part of the larger franchise narrative.

Produced by Dulquer Salmaan’s Wayfarer Films, Lokah is envisioned as a five-part cinematic franchise, drawing inspiration from regional myths and indigenous folklore. Its runaway success has not only expanded its audience base but also significantly raised expectations for the next instalments.

Speaking candidly about the challenges ahead, Arun said he has returned to the basics while scripting the sequel. “There is no formula for a blockbuster. I’ve started writing again from scratch. It’s difficult now because the pressure is much higher,” he said, acknowledging the weight of expectations.

The director confirmed that he has already completed initial scenes for Lokah Chapter 2, which will feature Tovino Thomas in the lead role. However, the makers are yet to announce an official release timeline.

With the franchise now firmly established, Lokah Chapter 2 is being closely watched as one of the most anticipated Malayalam projects currently in development.