Typically, I'm over undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre feels largely exhausted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. However, the platform's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Personal Development
One of this movie's strongest assets lies in the superb rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene in which a calm family gathering is violently interrupted by a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This intense moment is then followed by a flashback, allowing us to see this household prior to the tragedy struck.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient time to get to know the primary personalities prior to the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex best friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has understandably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured but socially awkward, and who loves playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. This household head consists of her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on just two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost overlooked this was a scary movie—which might seem like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of the film depicting us the identity of every family member is, plus the ways they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities allowed me to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat in a genre that often introduces individuals only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine shock once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and various family interactions in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades as a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy prior to making an abrupt turn toward shocking ground. These early scenes don't focus too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to immerse in the setting prior to everything gets upended.
Unique Zombification Source
This movie additionally presents a quite interesting explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Instead of a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this contagious disease originates in a recent sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted additional time on how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to creating a deadly elixir that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this condition has on people proves utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring choice, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and they're almost certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
Even better than the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of questionable choices (like any typical undead film), but generally, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger nears.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord when people begin transforming into zombies, this proved a welcome realistic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for everything! cliché often seen in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes loves her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide via telephone to regroup at a close spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This causes those instances where these individuals do show gratitude toward one another feel much more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep insight about family or community, as well. Rather, it's mostly delivering frights. But they're effective frights, and because the film allows every personality enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the outcome proves a captivating and entertaining
