Generally speaking, I've grown tired of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre seems largely depleted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for some time. However, the platform's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Character Development
Among this movie's strongest assets is its superb rhythm. It kicks off using a striking initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly interrupted by a van plows into the guest area. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding attacking the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to observe the family before the tragedy struck.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir truly gives viewers enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose former close friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—a clearly awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably led to a rift among the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and he loves gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. The family patriarch consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on only two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is incredibly strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so invested in the family's dynamics and their personal conflicts that I almost overlooked this was a scary movie—something that could sound like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of its runtime to showing viewers the identity of every family member is, plus the ways they contribute to the general turmoil. This focus on conflicting traits enabled me to relate with the characters enough to care about their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style that often presents individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to consume, thus it's a real shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and the multiple family interactions in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy before making a sudden turn into "holy shit" territory. These introductory moments don't focus too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides enough time to settle into its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
The film also offers a fairly interesting explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the cause for this infectious condition originates in a new sample of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of holistic medicine to creating a deadly potion which seems to contain a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited background, the impact this condition produces on humans proves absolutely disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear very realistic, and they're practically guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see some examples of dubious choices (as in typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with the nearest heavy object they find rather than freezing like prey in headlights as death approaches.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a pleasantly realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains clinging to bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they decide over the phone to meet up at a nearby location. But when Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This makes the moments where these individuals express appreciation toward one another feel much more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep message about family or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're successful frights, and because the film allows every personality enough room to grow and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable
