Generally speaking, I'm over zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category feels largely depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for some time. But, the platform's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Pacing and Personal Development
Among this movie's greatest strengths is its excellent rhythm. It begins with a striking initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding attacking the partygoers. This intense moment is then succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to see the family before the tragedy struck.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir truly gives the audience sufficient opportunity to get to know its main personalities before the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex close friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has understandably caused a rift among the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he loves playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to her. The family patriarch consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and who seems to care about only two things: his work and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama that I almost forgot this was a scary movie—which might seem like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a significant portion of its runtime to showing viewers who each family member represents, and how they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities allowed the audience to connect to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—a rare feat in a genre which frequently presents characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid humor prior to taking an abrupt turn toward shocking territory. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides enough time to immerse in its world prior to it gets upended.
Unique Zombification Source
The film additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although we do learn a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the film had spent additional time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to creating a lethal elixir that appears to contain a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of background, the effect this condition has on people proves utterly repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a bold choice, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and are almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of dubious decision-making (like any typical undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike an undead in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with the nearest heavy object is available instead of standing still like a deer in headlights while danger nears.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, this proved a pleasantly authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains holding onto bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they agree over the phone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel realistic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments when these characters express appreciation toward one another seem far more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message about family or society, as well. Instead, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're successful frights, and since the movie gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is an engaging and enjoyable
