Typically, I've had my fill of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre seems largely exhausted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for months. But, the platform's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Pacing and Character Development
Among this movie's strongest assets is its excellent rhythm. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence in which a calm family party is violently disrupted when a vehicle plows right into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding attacking the partygoers. This dramatic moment is then succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to see the family prior to the disaster struck.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually gives the audience sufficient opportunity to get to know its main personalities before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a married mother whose former close friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—a clearly awkward situation. This has predictably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and he enjoys gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have recently been unfaithful to her. The family patriarch is Nes' father, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who appears to care about just two aspects: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so engrossed in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of the film depicting viewers who each relative is, plus the ways they contribute to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting traits allowed me to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style that often presents individuals only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, disposable victims for an army of zombies to devour, so it's a genuine shock once events finally go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and various family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a Korean drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to making an abrupt shift toward "holy shit" ground. These early scenes aren't centered too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to immerse in the setting before it gets upended.
Original Zombification Source
The film additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause for this contagious disease originates in a recent batch from Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. While some background is provided a bit about its origins, I wish the movie devoted additional time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal elixir that appears to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the lack of context, the effect this affliction has on people proves utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's undead are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a bold decision, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear very convincing, and are almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
Even better than the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see some examples of questionable decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with the nearest heavy object is available instead of standing still like a deer caught in lights as death approaches.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict when people start turning into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide via telephone to meet up at a close location. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—seem realistic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to push the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances when these characters express appreciation toward one another seem far more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep message regarding relatives or society, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are effective scares, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result proves a captivating and enjoyable
