Typically, I've grown tired of zombie movies. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre feels mostly depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. However, the platform's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out quite entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Character Development
Among the film's greatest assets lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off using a striking initial scene where a calm family gathering is violently interrupted when a van crashes right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense scene is immediately followed by a look back, giving viewers to observe the family before the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough time to get to know its main personalities before the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother whose former best friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable situation. This has predictably led to a falling out between the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and he loves playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on only two aspects: his work and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so invested with this family's dynamics and their personal conflicts that I almost overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could sound like a negative, but in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film depicting us the identity of every relative represents, plus the ways they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting personalities enabled me to connect to the personalities enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment in a genre which frequently presents individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to consume, thus it's a real surprise once events finally go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring slightly dark humor prior to taking an abrupt shift toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory moments don't focus too heavily on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient time to immerse in its world prior to it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing reason regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source for this contagious disease stems from a recent sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. While we do learn a bit about its origins, I wish the movie had spent additional focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion that appears to include a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the lack of background, the effect this condition has on people proves absolutely disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a daring choice, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also very convincing, and they're almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some examples of dubious choices (like any any good zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives are inventive and sharp. They also don't hesitate to kick an undead in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with whatever heavy object they find instead of freezing like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they decide via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to promote the notion that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This causes the moments where these individuals do show gratitude toward one another feel far more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep insight about family or society, either. Instead, it's primarily delivering frights. Yet these are successful scares, and since the movie gives each character sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves a captivating and enjoyable
