For the most part, I'm over zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre seems largely depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. But, the platform's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated and proved quite enjoyable.
Impressive Pacing and Personal Development
One of this movie's greatest assets lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene where a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted when a vehicle crashes into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like stranger stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense scene is then succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to see this household prior to the disaster occurred.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly allows viewers sufficient opportunity to get to know its main personalities prior to the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has understandably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured but socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to her. The family head is Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he appears focused on only two aspects: his business and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so engrossed with this household's issues along with their personal conflicts that I almost overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a negative, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every relative is, and how they add to the overall dysfunction. This focus on conflicting traits allowed the audience to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style which frequently introduces characters just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to consume, so it's a genuine surprise once events finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and the multiple family interactions actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring slightly dark humor before making an abrupt turn into shocking ground. These introductory scenes don't focus as much on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still provides sufficient opportunity to immerse in the setting prior to it gets upended.
Original Infection Origin
This movie also offers a fairly interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source for this infectious condition originates in a recent sample from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While we do learn something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the movie had spent additional time on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the lack of context, the impact this condition produces on people proves utterly repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a bold choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear quite convincing, and they're almost guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive than the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of questionable decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and sharp. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with whatever heavy object they find rather than freezing like prey in headlights while danger nears.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord when people begin transforming to the undead, which was a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they decide over the phone to regroup at a close spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and relatable because the film doesn't try to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This makes the moments when these characters express gratitude for each other feel far more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep insight regarding relatives or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're effective scares, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves an engaging and entertaining
