For the most part, I'm over zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category seems mostly depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, the platform's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Pacing and Character Development
One of the film's greatest assets is its superb rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted by a van crashes right into the guest area. Out of the van, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding attacking the partygoers. This dramatic moment is then succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to see the family before the disaster occurred.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly gives the audience enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. This has predictably caused a falling out between the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and who enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on Nes. The family patriarch consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves incredibly strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so invested in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama that I almost forgot this was a scary movie—which might seem like a negative, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of the film depicting viewers the identity of every family member is, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This focus on conflicting personalities enabled me to relate with the characters enough to care about their outcome—an uncommon feat for this style which frequently presents individuals just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to devour, so it's a real shock once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and various household exchanges in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking a sudden turn into "holy shit" ground. These introductory scenes don't focus as much on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient opportunity to settle into the setting prior to everything gets upended.
Unique Infection Source
The film also offers a fairly intriguing reason for the source of the spreading transformation. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the cause of this contagious disease originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the film devoted additional time on how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of background, the effect this affliction has on people proves utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a bold decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear very realistic, and are practically guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive than the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some examples of questionable choices (like any typical undead film), but generally, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike a zombie 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 approaches.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict when people start turning into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains holding onto bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been building for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to push the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances when these characters express gratitude for each other feel much more sincere.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep message about family or society, as well. Instead, it's mostly delivering frights. Yet these are successful scares, and since the film gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is a captivating and entertaining
