🔗 Share this article

Generally speaking, I've had my fill of zombie movies. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category seems largely depleted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for months. However, the platform's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations and proved remarkably enjoyable.

Superb Pacing and Personal Development

Among the film's strongest assets lies in the excellent rhythm. It kicks off with a memorable initial scene where a peaceful family party is violently interrupted by a vehicle plows into the guest area. Out of the van, a very zombie-like individual stumbles out proceeding attacking the attendees. This intense scene is then succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe the family prior to the disaster struck.

In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly allows viewers sufficient time to get to know its main personalities before the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably caused a falling out between the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who loves playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. This household head consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he seems focused on just two aspects: his business and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely strained.

Invested in the Conflict

I became so invested in the household's issues along with their personal conflicts to the point I nearly forgot I was watching a scary movie—something that could sound like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film depicting viewers the identity of every family member is, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting personalities enabled the audience to connect with the characters enough to care about their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre that often introduces characters just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to consume, so it's a genuine surprise when things eventually go wrong.

Reminiscent of Parasite

The initial scenes from the gathering and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor prior to taking a sudden shift toward "holy shit" ground. These early scenes aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives sufficient time to immerse in the setting before it gets turned upside down.

Original Infection Origin

This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the spreading transformation. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition originates in a recent sample from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. Although we do learn something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film devoted a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the lack of background, the effect this condition has on humans proves absolutely repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear quite realistic, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.

Resourceful Characters

More impressive compared to the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see some instances of questionable decision-making (like any typical zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and sharp. They also don't hesitate to strike an undead in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights as death approaches.

Believable Family Strike

The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord once individuals start turning into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains holding onto resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they decide over the phone to meet up at a nearby location. But when Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the idea that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals express gratitude for each other seem much more sincere.

Stereotypical Conclusion

Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound insight about family or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're effective frights, and because the film gives each character sufficient space to grow and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the outcome is a captivating and enjoyable