Generally speaking, I've grown tired of zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems mostly depleted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. However, the platform's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out quite entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Development
Among the film's greatest assets is its superb rhythm. It begins with a memorable opening sequence in which a calm family party is violently disrupted when a vehicle crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like individual stumbles out and begins assaulting the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a look back, giving viewers to observe this household before the disaster struck.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir truly gives the audience enough opportunity to get to know its main characters prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose former best friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has predictably caused a rift between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and who loves gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. The family head is Nes' father, who runs a well-known natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and he seems focused on only two aspects: his work and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves incredibly tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so invested in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—which might sound like a negative, but in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime depicting us the identity of every family member is, and how they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled me to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently introduces individuals just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a genuine shock once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades as a Korean drama with slightly dark humor prior to taking a sudden shift toward "holy shit" territory. These introductory scenes don't focus too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives sufficient time to immerse in the setting before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
This movie also offers a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the cause for this contagious disease stems from a recent batch from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although we do learn a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent additional time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir which seems to include an extremely infectious virus. Despite the lack of context, the impact this condition produces on humans is utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a daring choice, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also very realistic, and are almost guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
More impressive compared to the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some examples of dubious decision-making (like any any good undead film), but generally, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike an undead in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with whatever heavy object is available rather than freezing like a deer in headlights as death approaches.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people start turning to the undead, which was a pleasantly authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes loves her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains clinging to bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they agree via telephone to regroup at a close spot. However, once Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to promote the notion that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This causes the moments where these individuals express appreciation toward one another feel far more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up scares. But they're successful scares, and because the film allows every personality enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable
