Typically, I've grown tired of zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre seems largely exhausted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. But, the platform's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations and proved quite enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Character Growth
Among this movie's greatest strengths is its superb rhythm. It begins using a memorable initial scene where a calm family party is violently interrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very zombie-like individual stumbles out proceeding attacking the partygoers. This intense moment is then succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to observe the family before the disaster occurred.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough time to get to know its main characters prior to the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother whose ex best friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—a clearly awkward dynamic. This has predictably led to a rift among Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch is her dad, who runs a popular natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and who appears to care about only two things: his work and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so invested in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a drawback, but in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film depicting us the identity of every family member represents, and how they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits enabled me to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment in a genre which frequently introduces individuals only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of zombies to devour, so it's a real shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a Korean drama with somewhat morbid humor prior to taking an abrupt shift into "holy shit" ground. These introductory scenes don't focus too heavily on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives sufficient opportunity to settle into the setting before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a quite interesting explanation for the source of the spreading transformation. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease originates in a recent batch from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although some background is provided a bit about how it started, I wish the film had spent a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to creating a lethal elixir which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the lack of background, the effect this affliction has on people is utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a daring decision, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite convincing, and are almost guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
More impressive compared to the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some instances of questionable choices (like any typical undead film), but generally, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument is available rather than standing still like prey caught in lights as death nears.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a welcome 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 movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains holding onto bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they agree over the phone to meet up at a close location. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments when these characters do show gratitude toward one another feel much more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound insight regarding relatives or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. Yet these are successful frights, and since the film allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and entertaining
