For the most part, I'm over undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, this category seems largely exhausted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. But, the platform's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated and proved quite entertaining.
Impressive Pacing and Character Development
Among the film's greatest strengths is its superb rhythm. It kicks off with a memorable initial scene where a calm family party is violently interrupted when a vehicle crashes into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual emerges and begins attacking the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to see this household prior to the tragedy struck.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir truly gives the audience enough time to get to know the primary personalities before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably led to a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured yet socially awkward, and he loves playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch is Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he appears to care about just two things: his business and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of the film to showing viewers the identity of every family member represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits enabled the audience to connect to the personalities sufficiently to care about their outcome—a rare accomplishment in a genre that often introduces characters just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine shock once events finally go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and the multiple family interactions in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking a sudden turn into shocking ground. These introductory moments don't focus too heavily on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives enough opportunity to immerse in its world before it gets upended.
Unique Zombification Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting reason for the source of the contagious zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition stems from a new sample of Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. While we do learn a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the movie had spent additional focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion that appears to include a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this affliction has on humans is absolutely disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also quite realistic, and are practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
Even better than the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see a few examples of dubious decision-making (like any typical undead film), but generally, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and sharp. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like prey in headlights while danger approaches.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict when people start turning to the undead, which was a pleasantly realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for everything! trope frequently used in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes loves her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they agree via telephone to meet up at a nearby location. However, once Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances where these individuals express appreciation for each other feel far more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound insight regarding relatives or society, either. Rather, it's primarily delivering scares. Yet these are successful frights, and because the film allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is an engaging and entertaining
