Generally speaking, I've grown tired of zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre feels mostly exhausted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for months. However, the platform's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Personal Development
One of this movie's greatest assets lies in the superb rhythm. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence in which a calm family party gets suddenly interrupted by a van crashes into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding attacking the partygoers. This dramatic moment is then succeeded by a look back, allowing us to observe this household before the tragedy struck.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with its main characters before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has understandably led to a falling out between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured yet socially awkward, and who enjoys playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to her. The family head is Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two things: his business and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves incredibly tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so invested in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama that I nearly forgot this was a horror film—something that could seem like a negative, but in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film depicting us the identity of every relative represents, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing personalities enabled the audience to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently introduces characters just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to consume, so it's a real shock when things finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and various household exchanges in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a Korean drama with slightly dark humor before making an abrupt shift into "holy shit" ground. These early scenes aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient opportunity to immerse in its world before it gets upended.
Original Infection Source
The film additionally presents a quite intriguing reason regarding the origin 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 from Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. While some background is provided a bit about how it started, I wish the movie devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to producing a deadly elixir which seems to contain a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of context, the effect this condition produces on people is absolutely repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear quite realistic, and are practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive compared to the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, we see a few instances of questionable choices (as in any good zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her family are inventive and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to kick an undead in the head, stab it using a farm tool, 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 Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord when people start turning into zombies, which was 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 frequently used 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 resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. But when Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been building for years. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel authentic and relatable because the film doesn't try to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals express appreciation toward one another seem far more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep insight about family or society, either. Instead, it's mostly delivering scares. Yet these are effective frights, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves a captivating and enjoyable
