For the most part, I've grown tired of zombie movies. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre seems mostly depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for some time. But, the platform's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Personal Development
Among this movie's greatest assets is its excellent rhythm. It begins using a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted when a van crashes into the guest area. Out of the van, a very zombie-like individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense moment is immediately succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to observe the family before the disaster occurred.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly allows viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with its main characters before the chaos begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—a clearly awkward situation. Naturally, this has understandably led to a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and he loves playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch is Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who appears to care about just two things: his work and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so invested with this household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot I was watching a scary movie—which might seem like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of the film to showing viewers the identity of every family member is, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing traits enabled the audience to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment for this style that often introduces characters just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine surprise when things eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy before taking an abrupt shift toward shocking territory. These introductory moments aren't centered too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient time to settle into its world before it gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading transformation. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the cause for this contagious disease stems from a new batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the film had spent additional time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to creating a deadly elixir which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the lack of background, the effect this affliction produces on humans proves absolutely repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a daring choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also quite convincing, and are almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive than the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, we see some examples of dubious decision-making (like any any good undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available rather than freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people begin transforming to the undead, which was a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still holding onto bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close location. But when Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—seem authentic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters do show appreciation for each other seem much more sincere.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight regarding relatives or society, either. Instead, it's mostly serving up scares. Yet these are effective scares, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable
