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For the most part, I've had my fill of zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre seems mostly exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. But, the platform's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.

Superb Rhythm and Character Growth

Among the film's strongest strengths is its superb pacing. It kicks off using a striking initial scene where a calm family gathering is violently disrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual emerges and begins attacking the partygoers. This dramatic moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to see the family prior to the disaster struck.

Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly gives viewers enough time to become acquainted with the primary characters before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex best friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably caused a rift between Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted but socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. The family head consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he appears focused on just two aspects: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves extremely strained.

Engaged in the Drama

I found myself so invested with this family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly overlooked this was a horror film—something that could seem like a drawback, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every family member is, plus the ways they add to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled the audience to relate with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently presents individuals only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine surprise once events finally go wrong.

Evocative of Parasite

The opening sequences of the party and various family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a Korean drama with somewhat morbid humor before making an abrupt turn into shocking territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives sufficient opportunity to immerse in the setting prior to everything gets turned upside down.

Unique Infection Origin

The film also offers a quite interesting reason regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a recent batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the film had spent a little more time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to creating a deadly elixir which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this condition has on people proves absolutely repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's undead prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also quite convincing, and they're almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.

Resourceful Characters

Even better compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some examples of questionable choices (as in typical undead film), however for the most part, 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 beat it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.

Realistic Family Discord

The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes loves her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still holding onto bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they agree over the phone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try to promote the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters do show gratitude toward one another feel much more sincere.

Stereotypical Conclusion

In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound insight regarding relatives or community, either. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're successful scares, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is a captivating and entertaining