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Typically, I'm over zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category feels mostly depleted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. But, the platform's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated and proved quite entertaining.

Excellent Rhythm and Character Development

Among the film's strongest assets is its superb pacing. It begins using a memorable initial scene where a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly interrupted when a van crashes right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe this household before the tragedy occurred.

In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters before the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex close friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably led to a rift between the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who enjoys playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on Nes. This household patriarch consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he seems to care about only two aspects: his business and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves extremely strained.

Invested in the Conflict

I found myself so engrossed with this family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot this was a horror film—something that could sound like a drawback, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime to showing viewers the identity of every family member is, plus the ways they contribute to the general turmoil. This focus on clashing traits allowed me to connect to the personalities sufficiently to care about their fate—a rare accomplishment in a genre which frequently introduces characters just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of the undead to devour, so it's a real surprise once events eventually go wrong.

Evocative of Parasite

The initial sequences from the gathering and the multiple family interactions actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama with slightly dark humor prior to taking a sudden shift into shocking territory. These early scenes aren't centered too heavily on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives enough opportunity to immerse in its world before it gets upended.

Unique Infection Origin

The film additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source for this contagious disease originates in a recent sample from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the movie had spent a little more time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited background, the effect this condition produces on people is utterly repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear quite convincing, and are almost certain to provoke one's trypophobia.

Capable Personalities

More impressive compared to the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some instances of dubious choices (like any typical zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike an undead in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available rather than freezing like a deer caught in lights as death nears.

Realistic Familial Strike

The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, this proved a welcome authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for everything! cliché frequently used in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains holding onto resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they decide via telephone to meet up at a close location. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to push the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals express appreciation for each other seem much more genuine.

Predictable Conclusion

Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound message about family or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily delivering frights. Yet these are effective scares, and because the movie allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable