🔗 Share this article

Typically, I've had my fill of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre feels largely exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for some time. However, the platform's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations turning out quite entertaining.

Impressive Rhythm and Character Growth

Among the film's greatest strengths is its superb pacing. It begins with a memorable initial scene where a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted by a vehicle crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like stranger emerges and begins assaulting the attendees. This intense scene is immediately followed by a look back, giving viewers to see the family prior to the tragedy struck.

Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir truly allows viewers enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose former best friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. This has understandably led to a falling out between Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he loves playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on Nes. This household patriarch consists of Nes' father, who runs a popular natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two things: his business and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves incredibly strained.

Invested in the Drama

I found myself so invested with this household's issues along with their personal conflicts to the point I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a negative, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime depicting us the identity of every family member is, plus the ways they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting traits enabled the audience to connect with the characters sufficiently to care about their outcome—a rare feat for this style that often presents individuals only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to devour, so it's a genuine surprise once events finally deteriorate.

Evocative of Parasite

The initial scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a Korean drama featuring slightly dark humor before making an abrupt turn into shocking ground. These early scenes aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient time to settle into the setting before it gets turned upside down.

Unique Infection Source

This movie also offers a fairly interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition stems from a recent sample of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. Although some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the movie had spent a little more time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited background, the impact this condition produces on humans is utterly repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a bold decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear quite realistic, and are almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.

Resourceful Personalities

More impressive than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of questionable decision-making (as in any good undead film), but generally, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and sharp. They also don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like a deer in headlights as death nears.

Realistic Family Discord

The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a welcome realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for everything! cliché often seen in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes loves her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains holding onto resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they agree via telephone to meet up at a close location. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This makes the moments when these characters express gratitude for each other seem far more sincere.

Predictable Conclusion

Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep message about family or society, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are successful frights, and since the movie allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable