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Generally speaking, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category feels largely exhausted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, the platform's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations and proved remarkably enjoyable.

Superb Rhythm and Character Growth

One of this movie's greatest strengths lies in the excellent rhythm. It begins using a memorable initial scene where a peaceful family party is violently interrupted when a vehicle plows into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual stumbles out proceeding attacking the attendees. This dramatic scene is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe this household prior to the tragedy occurred.

Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a married mother whose former close friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. This has understandably caused a rift among Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he enjoys gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on Nes. The family head is Nes' father, who runs a well-known natural medicine company named Wani Waras, and who seems to care about just two things: his business and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely strained.

Engaged in the Conflict

I became so invested in the family's dynamics and their personal conflicts to the point I almost forgot I was watching a horror film—which might sound like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime depicting us who each family member represents, plus the ways they contribute to the general dysfunction. This focus on clashing traits enabled me to relate with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat for this style that often introduces characters just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to devour, so it's a genuine shock when things eventually deteriorate.

Reminiscent of Parasite

The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple family interactions actually evoke the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama with slightly dark humor prior to making a sudden turn toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides sufficient time to settle into its world before everything gets turned upside down.

Original Zombification Source

This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting reason for the source of the spreading transformation. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the movie had spent a little more time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a lethal elixir that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the impact this condition has on people is utterly disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite convincing, and are practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.

Resourceful Personalities

More impressive than the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are some instances of questionable decision-making (as in typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike an undead in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument they find instead of standing still like prey caught in lights as death nears.

Realistic Familial Strike

The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord when people start turning to the undead, which was a welcome authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they decide via telephone to meet up at a close location. But when Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been building for years. Nes is not flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—seem authentic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the idea that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters do show appreciation for each other feel much more genuine.

Stereotypical Ending

Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound insight about family or society, either. Instead, it's mostly serving up frights. Yet these are effective frights, and since the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is a captivating and entertaining