Typically, I've had my fill of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre feels largely depleted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for some time. But, the platform's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Pacing and Character Development
Among this movie's strongest assets is its excellent pacing. It kicks off with a striking initial scene where a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted by a vehicle plows right into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking individual emerges proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense moment is immediately followed by a flashback, allowing us to observe the family prior to the tragedy struck.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir truly gives viewers enough time to get to know the primary personalities before the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose former best friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—a clearly awkward situation. Naturally, this has understandably caused a rift among the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who enjoys gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household patriarch is her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he appears focused on just two aspects: his work and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves extremely strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so invested with this family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama that I almost forgot I was watching a scary movie—which might sound like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every family member represents, plus the ways they add to the overall turmoil. This focus on conflicting traits allowed the audience to connect to the personalities enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style that often introduces characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to consume, thus it's a real surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and various family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy before taking an abrupt shift toward shocking ground. These early scenes don't focus as much on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to settle into its world prior to it gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Source
The film additionally presents a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a recent sample of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film had spent a little more time on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to creating a deadly potion which seems to contain a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of context, the impact this affliction produces on people is utterly disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's undead prove fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a bold decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also very realistic, and they're practically guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
Even better than the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see a few examples of dubious decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick an undead in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument they find rather than standing still like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord once individuals start turning into zombies, this proved a welcome authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a close spot. However, once Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters express appreciation toward one another feel much more genuine.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound message about family or community, as well. Instead, it's mostly delivering frights. Yet these are effective frights, and because the movie gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and entertaining
