For the most part, I've grown tired of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category seems mostly exhausted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. However, the platform's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations and proved quite enjoyable.
Impressive Pacing and Character Development
One of this movie's greatest assets lies in the excellent pacing. It kicks off using a striking initial scene in which a calm family gathering is violently disrupted when a van plows into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like individual emerges proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a flashback, allowing us to see the family prior to the disaster struck.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough opportunity to become acquainted with its main characters prior to the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex close friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. This has understandably led to a falling out among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured but a bit inept socially, and who enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. The family head consists of her dad, who runs a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on only two things: his business and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is extremely tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed in the household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost overlooked this was a horror film—something that could sound like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of the film depicting us the identity of every relative represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on clashing personalities allowed me to relate to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—a rare feat in a genre which frequently presents characters only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and various family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama with slightly dark humor before making an abrupt shift into "holy shit" territory. These introductory scenes aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to immerse in its world prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Source
The film also offers a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the contagious transformation. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a new sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. While some background is provided a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the film devoted additional focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of context, the effect this condition has on humans proves absolutely disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a bold choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear very realistic, and are almost guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
Even better than the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are a few examples of questionable choices (like any any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike an undead in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object they find instead of standing still like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, this proved a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for everything! cliché often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they decide over the phone to meet up at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals express gratitude toward one another seem far more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound insight regarding relatives or community, either. Rather, it's mostly serving up scares. But they're successful scares, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
