For the most part, I'm over undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre seems largely depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. But, the platform's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations turning out quite entertaining.
Impressive Rhythm and Personal Growth
Among this movie's strongest assets lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off with a memorable opening sequence in which a peaceful family party is violently interrupted by a vehicle plows into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like individual emerges and begins attacking the attendees. This intense scene is then succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe the family prior to the disaster occurred.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough opportunity to become acquainted with its main personalities before the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose former best friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward dynamic. This has understandably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and he loves gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on her. The family patriarch consists of her dad, who runs a well-known natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and who seems to care about just two things: his business and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so invested with this household's issues along with their personal conflicts that I almost overlooked this was a scary movie—something that could sound like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of its runtime to showing us who each family member represents, plus the ways they add to the general turmoil. This emphasis on clashing personalities allowed me to relate with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment in a genre which frequently introduces individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, thus it's a real surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges in fact evoke the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a Korean drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to making an abrupt turn toward shocking territory. These introductory moments don't focus as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to immerse in the setting prior to it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
This movie also offers a fairly interesting reason regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the cause for this infectious condition stems from a new sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. While we do learn something regarding how it started, I wish the movie devoted a little more time on how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion which seems to include an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this affliction has on humans is utterly repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's undead prove fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a bold decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also quite convincing, and they're almost certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see a few instances of questionable choices (as in typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with the nearest heavy object they find instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger nears.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord when people start turning to the undead, which was a pleasantly realistic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for everything! cliché frequently used in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains clinging to bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they decide via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been building for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable because the film doesn't try to push the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This causes the moments where these individuals express appreciation for each other seem much more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight about family or society, either. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're successful scares, and because the film gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
