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Generally speaking, I've had my fill of zombie movies. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, this category feels mostly depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. But, the platform's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations turning out remarkably entertaining.

Superb Pacing and Personal Development

Among the film's greatest assets lies in the superb rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene in which a calm family party gets suddenly disrupted when a vehicle plows right into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking individual emerges and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense moment is then succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to observe this household before the disaster occurred.

In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough time to get to know its main characters before the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a former close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has understandably led to a falling out among the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on Nes. This household head consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and who appears to care about just two aspects: his business and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly tense.

Invested in the Conflict

I found myself so invested in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly overlooked this was a horror film—which might sound like a negative, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of the film depicting us who each relative represents, and how they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting personalities allowed me to relate with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment in a genre which frequently presents characters just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to consume, so it's a real surprise once events finally deteriorate.

Reminiscent of Parasite

The opening scenes from the gathering and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking a sudden turn toward "holy shit" ground. These early moments don't focus too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides enough time to immerse in the setting before everything gets upended.

Unique Infection Source

This movie also offers a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the movie had spent a little more focus on how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal elixir which seems to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the limited context, the impact this affliction produces on humans proves utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and they're almost certain to provoke one's trypophobia.

Capable Personalities

Even better than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are some examples of questionable decision-making (as in typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with whatever heavy object they find instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.

Realistic Family Strike

The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they decide via telephone to meet up at a nearby location. However, once Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel realistic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments when these characters do show gratitude for each other feel much more genuine.

Stereotypical Conclusion

In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep message regarding relatives or community, either. Instead, it's primarily delivering frights. Yet these are effective scares, and since the film gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves an engaging and entertaining