Typically, I've grown tired of undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, this category seems largely depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for months. However, the platform's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated turning out quite entertaining.
Superb Pacing and Personal Development
One of this movie's greatest assets lies in the superb pacing. It begins using a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family party gets suddenly disrupted by a van plows into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like individual emerges proceeding assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is immediately followed by a look back, allowing us to see this household prior to the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir truly allows the audience enough time to get to know its main characters before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a married mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably caused a rift between Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured but a bit inept socially, and who loves gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household head is her dad, who runs a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two aspects: his business and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so invested in the household's issues and their personal conflicts to the point I nearly forgot this was a horror film—something that could seem like a drawback, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime depicting us the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they add to the general turmoil. This focus on clashing traits enabled me to relate with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently presents individuals only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of the undead to devour, thus it's a real surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor prior to making a sudden turn toward shocking territory. These early scenes aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough time to immerse in its world prior to it gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Source
The film additionally presents a fairly interesting explanation regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Instead of a unintended lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. Although some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted additional time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to creating a deadly potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this condition has on people is absolutely repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and they're almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
More impressive than the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few examples of questionable choices (like any any good undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with whatever heavy object they find rather than standing still like a deer in headlights while danger nears.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord when people start turning into zombies, this proved a welcome realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for everything! cliché often seen in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building for years. Nes is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to promote the idea that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments when these characters express appreciation for each other seem much more sincere.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message regarding relatives or community, either. Rather, it's primarily delivering scares. Yet these are successful frights, and since the film gives each character sufficient space to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the outcome proves a captivating and entertaining
