For the most part, I'm over undead films. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre feels largely exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for months. However, the platform's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out quite entertaining.
Impressive Rhythm and Personal Development
One of the film's strongest assets is its excellent rhythm. It begins with a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family party gets suddenly interrupted when a vehicle crashes into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking individual stumbles out and begins assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is immediately succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to see this household before the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother whose former best friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. This has understandably led to a falling out among Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and he loves playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on Nes. This household patriarch is Nes' father, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and who appears focused on just two things: his work and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is incredibly strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so invested with this family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts that I almost overlooked this was a horror film—which might seem like a negative, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of its runtime depicting viewers who each relative is, and how they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed the audience to relate to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat for this style which frequently introduces individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and the multiple family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama featuring slightly dark humor prior to making a sudden turn into shocking ground. These early scenes aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to settle into its world prior to it gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Origin
The film additionally presents a fairly interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Instead of a unintended lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a new sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. Although we do learn something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the movie had spent a little more focus on how Wani Waras went from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to producing a deadly elixir that appears to include a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the limited background, the effect this affliction produces on people proves utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a bold choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear very convincing, and they're almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive than the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few examples of questionable choices (like any typical zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with whatever heavy object is available instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger nears.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for everything! trope frequently used in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains clinging to bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they decide over the phone to regroup at a close spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try to promote the notion that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This causes the moments when these characters express gratitude for each other seem far more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep insight about family or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are successful scares, and because the film gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is an engaging and entertaining
