Generally speaking, I've grown tired of zombie movies. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category feels largely depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for some time. However, the platform's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Pacing and Character Development
Among the film's strongest strengths lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence in which a calm family gathering is violently interrupted by a vehicle plows right into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding attacking the attendees. This dramatic scene is immediately followed by a look back, giving viewers to see this household before the tragedy occurred.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. This has understandably led to a rift among Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured but a bit inept socially, and he loves gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have recently been unfaithful to her. The family patriarch consists of Nes' father, who runs a popular natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and he appears to care about only two things: his work and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves incredibly strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so engrossed with this household's issues along with their personal conflicts to the point I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a drawback, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime to showing us the identity of every relative represents, plus the ways they add to the general turmoil. This focus on conflicting traits enabled me to connect with the characters enough to care about their outcome—a rare accomplishment for this style which frequently introduces individuals only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine shock once events eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and various family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama featuring slightly dark humor prior to making a sudden shift toward shocking territory. These introductory moments don't focus as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives sufficient opportunity to settle into the setting prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
The film also offers a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition stems from a recent batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. While we do learn something regarding how it started, I wish the film had spent additional time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to producing a deadly potion which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the limited background, the effect this affliction produces on people is utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a bold decision, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also very convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
Even better than the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see some examples of questionable choices (like any any good zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and sharp. They also aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like prey caught in lights as death approaches.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning to the undead, this proved a pleasantly authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still holding onto resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they decide over the phone to meet up at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been building for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the idea that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This makes the moments where these individuals do show gratitude toward one another feel much more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep message regarding relatives or society, either. Instead, it's primarily delivering scares. But they're successful frights, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result proves a captivating and entertaining
