Typically, I've grown tired of undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems largely exhausted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. But, 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 this movie's greatest strengths lies in the superb pacing. It begins with a striking opening sequence in which a calm family party is violently disrupted when a vehicle plows into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense moment is immediately followed by a flashback, allowing us to observe the family prior to the disaster occurred.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows the audience enough opportunity to become acquainted with its main personalities prior to the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother whose former close friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has understandably led to a falling out between the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured but socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. The family patriarch consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and who appears to care about only two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves extremely tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so engrossed in the household's issues along with their personal conflicts to the point I nearly overlooked I was watching a scary movie—something that could sound like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film depicting us the identity of every family member is, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled the audience to connect to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat for this style that often introduces characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a real surprise once events finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and the multiple family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a Korean drama featuring slightly dark humor before taking an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" ground. These early scenes aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives sufficient time to settle into the setting prior to everything gets upended.
Unique Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a quite interesting explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the source of this contagious disease originates in a recent sample of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. Although we do learn something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film had spent a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir that appears to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the limited context, the impact this affliction has on people proves absolutely repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a daring decision, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and are practically guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
Even better compared to the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see some examples of questionable choices (as in any good zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger nears.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a pleasantly realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a close spot. But when Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to push the notion that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This makes those instances where these individuals express gratitude for each other feel far more genuine.
Stereotypical 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 offering up any deep message regarding relatives or society, either. Instead, it's mostly delivering frights. But they're successful scares, and since the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is an engaging and enjoyable
