Generally speaking, I've had my fill of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre seems largely exhausted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. But, the platform's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Character Development
Among the film's strongest strengths lies in the superb rhythm. It begins using a striking initial scene in which a calm family gathering is violently disrupted by a van crashes into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual emerges proceeding assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is immediately followed by a look back, allowing us to see this household prior to the disaster occurred.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with its main characters before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former best friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable situation. This has understandably led to a falling out among the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. The family patriarch consists of Nes' father, who runs a well-known natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and he seems to care about only two aspects: his business and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is incredibly strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so invested in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama that I nearly forgot this was a horror film—something that could seem like a drawback, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every family member is, plus the ways they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled the audience to relate with the characters enough to care about their fate—an uncommon accomplishment for this style which frequently presents characters just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to devour, thus it's a genuine surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges in fact evoke the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a K-Drama featuring slightly dark humor prior to taking an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides sufficient time to immerse in its world prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a quite intriguing reason regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Instead of a unintended lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this contagious disease stems from a new sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. Although some background is provided something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film devoted additional time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal elixir which seems to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the limited background, the effect this condition produces on people proves utterly repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also very realistic, and are almost guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
Even better compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some instances of questionable decision-making (as in typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and sharp. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with the nearest heavy object is available instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights as death nears.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord once individuals begin transforming into zombies, which was a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for everything! cliché frequently used in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close location. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been building for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem realistic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters express appreciation toward one another seem far more sincere.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight about family or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up scares. But they're effective scares, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable
