For the most part, I've had my fill of zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category feels mostly depleted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, the platform's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations and proved quite enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Character Growth
Among this movie's strongest strengths lies in the superb rhythm. It begins with a memorable opening sequence in which a calm family party is violently disrupted when a vehicle plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like individual emerges and begins assaulting the attendees. This dramatic moment is then succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe the family prior to the tragedy occurred.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir truly gives viewers sufficient time to get to know its main personalities prior to the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out among the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and who enjoys playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household head consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and who appears focused on just two things: his work and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed with this family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts that I nearly overlooked I was watching a scary movie—something that could seem like a negative, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime depicting us the identity of every family member represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing traits allowed the audience to relate to the personalities 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 doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to consume, thus it's a real surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and the multiple family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a K-Drama with slightly dark humor before making an abrupt turn into shocking territory. These early scenes aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough time to immerse in the setting before everything gets upended.
Unique Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading transformation. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition originates in a recent sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. While we do learn something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film devoted a little more time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir that appears to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of context, the effect this condition produces on people is absolutely disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and they're practically certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
More impressive than the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some examples of questionable decision-making (like any typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument they find instead of freezing like prey caught in lights as death approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they decide over the phone to meet up at a nearby location. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and understandable because the film doesn't try to push the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals do show gratitude for each other feel far more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep message regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are successful frights, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable