Typically, I've grown tired of undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category seems largely exhausted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. But, the platform's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations turning out quite enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Growth
One of the film's strongest assets is its superb pacing. It kicks off with a memorable opening sequence in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly interrupted by a vehicle crashes right into the guest area. Out of the van, a very zombie-like individual stumbles out and begins assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe this household before the disaster struck.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir truly gives viewers sufficient time to get to know its main personalities prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a ex best friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—an obviously awkward situation. This has predictably caused a rift between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured but a bit inept socially, and who enjoys gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on Nes. The family head is Nes' father, who runs a popular natural medicine company named Wani Waras, and he seems focused on just two things: his business and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is extremely strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so engrossed in the family's dynamics and their personal conflicts to the point I nearly overlooked this was a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film to showing viewers who each family member is, plus the ways they add to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits allowed me to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre that often presents individuals only to kill them off shortly afterwards. 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 deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and the multiple family interactions in fact evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to making an abrupt shift into "holy shit" ground. These early moments don't focus too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough opportunity to immerse in its world before it gets upended.
Original Zombification Origin
The film also offers a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Instead of a unintended lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a new sample from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although we do learn a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the movie had spent a little more time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a deadly potion which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this condition has on people is absolutely repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a daring choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite convincing, and they're practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of dubious decision-making (like any typical undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with whatever heavy object is available instead of freezing like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a welcome authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a close location. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—seem authentic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to push the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals express gratitude for each other feel far more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound message about family or community, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up scares. Yet these are successful frights, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to develop and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
