For the most part, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, this category feels largely depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. But, the platform's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out quite entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Development
Among this movie's greatest strengths is its superb pacing. It begins with a striking initial scene where a calm family party is violently interrupted when a van crashes right into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like individual stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This intense scene is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe this household before the disaster struck.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually allows the audience enough time to become acquainted with its main personalities before the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. This has understandably caused a rift among Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted but socially awkward, and he loves playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have recently been unfaithful to her. The family head consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular natural medicine company named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two aspects: his work and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves extremely strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama that I almost forgot I was watching a scary movie—which might seem like a negative, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of its runtime to showing us who each family member represents, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This focus on clashing traits allowed me to relate to the personalities enough to care about their fate—a rare feat in a genre which frequently introduces characters just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of the undead to devour, so it's a genuine shock once events eventually go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and the multiple family interactions in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy before making an abrupt shift into "holy shit" ground. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to immerse in its world before it gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Source
The film additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source of this infectious condition stems from a recent sample from Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. While we do learn something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film devoted additional time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the limited context, the impact this condition produces on humans is absolutely repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a bold choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also quite convincing, and are almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of questionable decision-making (as in any good undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people start turning into zombies, 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!" cliché frequently used in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they agree via telephone to meet up at a close spot. But when Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been building for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the notion that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals do show gratitude for each other feel far more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound message regarding relatives or community, either. Instead, it's mostly serving up scares. But they're effective scares, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to develop and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the outcome is an engaging and entertaining
