Generally speaking, I've grown tired of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, this category feels largely depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, the platform's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations turning out quite enjoyable.
Impressive Pacing and Personal Growth
Among this movie's strongest assets is its excellent rhythm. It begins with a memorable initial scene where a peaceful family party is violently disrupted by a vehicle plows right into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking stranger emerges proceeding attacking the partygoers. This intense scene is immediately succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to see the family prior to the tragedy struck.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough opportunity to get to know the primary characters prior to the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former best friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable situation. This has predictably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and who loves gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on her. The family head consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on just two aspects: his work and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so engrossed with this family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama that I nearly forgot I was watching a scary movie—something that could seem like a drawback, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film depicting us the identity of every family member is, and how they add to the general turmoil. This focus on conflicting traits enabled the audience to relate with the characters enough to care about their outcome—an uncommon feat for this style that often presents individuals just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to consume, so it's a real surprise when things eventually go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and various family interactions in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a Korean drama with slightly dark humor before making a sudden turn into shocking ground. These early scenes aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient opportunity to settle into the setting before everything gets upended.
Original Infection Source
The film additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a new batch from Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion which seems to contain a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of context, the impact this condition produces on people is utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear quite realistic, and they're practically certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
Even better than the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see a few examples of dubious choices (as in any good zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and sharp. They also aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights as death nears.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for everything! trope frequently used in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes loves her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they agree over the phone to meet up at a close location. However, once Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances where these individuals do show gratitude toward one another feel far more sincere.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight about family or society, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are successful frights, and since the film allows every personality enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the outcome proves a captivating and entertaining
