Generally speaking, I've grown tired of zombie movies. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category seems largely depleted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, the platform's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated and proved remarkably entertaining.
Excellent Rhythm and Personal Development
One of this movie's strongest strengths lies in the excellent rhythm. It kicks off with a striking initial scene where a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted by a vehicle plows into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual emerges proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This intense scene is then succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to see this household prior to the tragedy struck.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually gives the audience sufficient time to become acquainted with its main characters before the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a ex best friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has understandably led to a rift among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured but socially awkward, and who enjoys gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on Nes. The family patriarch consists of her dad, who runs a well-known natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two aspects: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves incredibly tense.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so invested in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama that I almost forgot this was a horror film—which might seem like a drawback, but in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film to showing viewers the identity of every family member is, plus the ways they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed the audience to connect with the characters sufficiently to care about their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style that often introduces individuals only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to devour, thus it's a real surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and the multiple family interactions in fact evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking a sudden turn toward shocking territory. These early moments don't focus as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to settle into the setting prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a quite intriguing reason regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Instead of a unintended lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a recent sample of Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. While we do learn something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted a little more time on how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a lethal elixir that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the limited context, the effect this affliction has on people proves utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a bold choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear very convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
Even better than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of questionable choices (as in any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like prey caught in lights as death nears.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict when people start turning to the undead, which was a welcome authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes loves her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still clinging to resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close location. But when Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been building for years. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters do show appreciation toward one another feel far more sincere.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep insight regarding relatives or community, either. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. Yet these are effective frights, and since the movie allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome is an engaging and enjoyable
