For the most part, I've had my fill of zombie movies. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre seems mostly depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for some time. However, the platform's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out remarkably entertaining.
Excellent Pacing and Character Development
One of this movie's greatest strengths is its excellent rhythm. It begins with a striking opening sequence in which a calm family party is violently interrupted when a van plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to see this household prior to the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir truly allows the audience sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary personalities prior to the carnage begins. There's Nes, a married mother whose former close friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. Naturally, this has understandably caused a rift between the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on Nes. This household head is her dad, who runs a popular natural medicine company named Wani Waras, and who seems to care about just two things: his business and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so invested in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama that I almost forgot I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a drawback, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of its runtime depicting us who each relative represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits enabled me to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment in a genre which frequently introduces characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a genuine shock once events finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various household exchanges in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades as a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy prior to making a sudden shift toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still provides sufficient opportunity to immerse in the setting prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Origin
The film additionally presents a fairly interesting reason regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition stems from a new sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, I wish the film had spent a little more focus on how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this condition produces on humans proves utterly repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a bold choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very realistic, and they're almost guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
Even better than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see some instances of questionable choices (like any any good zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to kick an undead in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with whatever heavy object they find instead of freezing like prey caught in lights as death nears.
Realistic Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people begin transforming into zombies, this proved a pleasantly realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby location. However, once Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been building for years. Nes is not flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—feel realistic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to promote the idea that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments when these characters express appreciation for each other seem far more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound insight about family or community, either. Rather, it's mostly serving up frights. Yet these are effective frights, and because the movie allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable
