Generally speaking, I've had my fill of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category feels largely exhausted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. But, the platform's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Personal Growth
Among the film's greatest assets is its excellent pacing. It kicks off with a striking initial scene in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly interrupted when a van crashes right into the guest area. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding attacking the partygoers. This intense scene is then followed by a look back, giving viewers to see the family prior to the tragedy struck.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough time to become acquainted with its main characters before the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured but socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. The family head is Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who seems to care about only two things: his business and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is extremely tense.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot this was a scary movie—something that could sound like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime to showing viewers who each relative represents, and how they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits allowed the audience to connect to the personalities enough to care about their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently presents characters just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to devour, so it's a real shock once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and the multiple family interactions actually evoke the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor before making a sudden turn into "holy shit" territory. These early scenes aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough time to immerse in its world prior to it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
This movie also offers a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the cause for this infectious condition stems from a recent batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. While some background is provided a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the movie devoted additional focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of context, the effect this condition produces on people proves utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a bold decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also quite realistic, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some instances of questionable choices (as in any good undead film), however generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available instead of standing still like prey in headlights as death nears.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord when people start turning to the undead, this proved a pleasantly realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes loves her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they decide over the phone to regroup at a nearby location. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This makes the moments when these characters do show gratitude for each other feel much more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep insight about family or community, as well. Instead, it's mostly delivering scares. Yet these are effective frights, and because the film gives each character enough room to grow and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result proves a captivating and entertaining
