For the most part, I'm over zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre feels mostly exhausted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for some time. However, the platform's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out remarkably entertaining.
Excellent Rhythm and Personal Development
One of this movie's greatest assets lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family party is violently disrupted by a vehicle crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding attacking the partygoers. This intense scene is then followed by a look back, allowing us to see the family prior to the disaster occurred.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly gives viewers enough opportunity to get to know the primary personalities before the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a former close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably caused a rift among the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and who enjoys playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household head consists of Nes' father, who runs a popular natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on only two things: his business and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so invested in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film depicting us the identity of every relative represents, plus the ways they contribute to the general turmoil. This focus on clashing traits enabled me to relate with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style which frequently introduces characters just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of zombies to devour, so it's a real shock when things eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a Korean drama with slightly dark humor before taking an abrupt shift toward "holy shit" ground. These early moments don't focus as much on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient opportunity to immerse in its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Source
This movie also offers a quite interesting reason for the source of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the cause for this infectious condition stems from a recent sample from Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. Although some background is provided a bit about how it started, I wish the movie had spent a little more focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to creating a lethal potion that appears to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this affliction produces on people proves absolutely disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also quite convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
More impressive than the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some examples of dubious choices (as in any good zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and sharp. They also don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with the nearest heavy object is available rather than freezing like prey in headlights while danger nears.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they decide via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals express appreciation for each other feel much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up frights. But they're successful scares, and because the movie gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable
