For the most part, I've had my fill of zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre seems mostly exhausted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for months. But, the platform's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Pacing and Personal Development
Among the film's greatest strengths is its excellent rhythm. It begins with a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly interrupted when a van crashes into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like stranger emerges and begins attacking the partygoers. This intense scene is then followed by a flashback, allowing us to see the family prior to the tragedy occurred.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary personalities prior to the chaos begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex close friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably led to a falling out between Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he loves gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. The family head is Nes' father, the owner of a well-known natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and he seems to care about only two things: his business and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so invested in the household's issues and their personal conflicts that I nearly overlooked I was watching a scary movie—which might seem like a negative, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film depicting us the identity of every family member is, and how they add to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed me to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style which frequently presents individuals just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to devour, thus it's a genuine surprise when things eventually go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a K-Drama with slightly dark comedy prior to making an abrupt turn toward shocking ground. These early moments don't focus too heavily on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives enough time to immerse in its world before everything gets upended.
Original Zombification Origin
This movie also offers a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the source of this contagious disease stems from a recent sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. While we do learn a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the film devoted additional focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion which seems to include an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the impact this affliction produces on humans is utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a daring decision, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and they're practically certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see a few instances of dubious decision-making (as in any good undead film), but generally, Nes and her family are resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike an undead in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument is available rather than freezing like prey caught in lights as death approaches.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains clinging to bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they decide over the phone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been building for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters express appreciation toward one another feel much more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep insight about family or community, either. Instead, it's primarily serving up scares. But they're effective frights, and because the film allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome is a captivating and entertaining
