Typically, I've had my fill of zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre feels largely exhausted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. But, the platform's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Development
One of the film's strongest strengths lies in the excellent pacing. It kicks off with a memorable opening sequence in which a calm family party gets suddenly interrupted by a vehicle crashes into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual emerges and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to see the family before the disaster struck.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient time to get to know its main personalities prior to the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—a clearly awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured but a bit inept socially, and who enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household head is Nes' father, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on just two things: his business and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed with this household's issues and their personal conflicts to the point I almost overlooked I was watching a scary movie—something that could sound like a drawback, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every relative represents, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting traits enabled the audience to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre which frequently introduces characters just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to consume, so it's a genuine surprise once events finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and the multiple family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy before making an abrupt shift toward shocking ground. These early moments don't focus as much on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient time to settle into its world prior to it gets upended.
Original Infection Source
The film additionally presents a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the movie devoted additional time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir that appears to contain a highly contagious virus. Despite the limited background, the impact this affliction has on people proves absolutely disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a bold choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear very convincing, and they're almost guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of dubious decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to strike an undead in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with whatever heavy object is available instead of standing still like a deer in headlights as death approaches.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord once individuals start turning to the undead, this proved a welcome realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel authentic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters express gratitude toward one another seem much more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound message regarding relatives or community, either. Rather, it's mostly serving up frights. Yet these are effective frights, and because the film allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and entertaining
