For the most part, I've grown tired of undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre seems largely depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for some time. However, the platform's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated turning out quite enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Growth
One of the film's greatest strengths is its excellent pacing. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family party is violently interrupted by a vehicle crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger emerges and begins attacking the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then followed by a look back, giving viewers to observe the family before the tragedy struck.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient time to get to know its main characters prior to the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a married mother whose ex close friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has understandably caused a falling out between the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and who loves gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household head is Nes' father, who runs a popular natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and he appears focused on only two things: his business and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves incredibly tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so invested with this household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot this was a scary movie—something that could sound like a drawback, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of the film depicting us the identity of every relative represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled the audience to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style which frequently presents individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine shock when things finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and various family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama with somewhat morbid humor prior to taking a sudden turn into shocking territory. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient opportunity to settle into the setting before it gets upended.
Original Zombification Origin
The film additionally presents a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Instead of a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source for this contagious disease originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. Although we do learn something regarding its origins, I wish the film had spent a little more focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the lack of background, the impact this affliction has on humans proves utterly repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a bold decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear quite convincing, and are almost guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some examples of questionable decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. 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 the nearest heavy object is available rather than freezing like a deer caught in lights as death approaches.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord when people start turning to the undead, which was a welcome realistic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they agree over the phone to meet up at a close location. However, once Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This makes those instances where these individuals express appreciation for each other seem far more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep insight about family or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering scares. Yet these are successful frights, and because the movie gives each character sufficient space to grow and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the result proves a captivating and enjoyable
