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Generally speaking, I'm over undead films. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, this category seems largely depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. However, the platform's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated and proved quite enjoyable.

Excellent Rhythm and Character Development

Among this movie's greatest assets lies in the superb pacing. It begins with a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted by a van plows into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like stranger stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This intense scene is then succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe the family prior to the tragedy occurred.

In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir truly allows the audience enough time to become acquainted with its main characters before the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose former close friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has predictably led to a falling out among the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household head consists of her dad, the owner of a popular natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and he seems to care about only two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely tense.

Invested in the Drama

I found myself so invested with this family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama that I nearly forgot this was a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime depicting us the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they add to the overall dysfunction. This focus on clashing traits allowed me to relate with the characters enough to care about their fate—a rare feat in a genre which frequently presents individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to devour, thus it's a real surprise once events eventually deteriorate.

Evocative of Parasite

The opening scenes of the party and various household exchanges in fact evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a K-Drama with slightly dark humor prior to taking a sudden turn toward shocking ground. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives enough time to settle into the setting before everything gets turned upside down.

Unique Infection Origin

This movie also offers a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading transformation. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition originates in a new sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. While some background is provided a bit about its origins, I wish the film devoted a little more time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of context, the effect this affliction has on humans is utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a bold decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear quite realistic, and are almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.

Resourceful Characters

Even better compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few examples of dubious choices (like any any good undead film), but generally, Nes and her family are inventive and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with whatever heavy object is available rather than standing still like prey in headlights while danger nears.

Realistic Familial Strike

The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they decide over the phone to regroup at a nearby location. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been building for years. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and understandable because the film doesn't try to push the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments where these individuals do show appreciation for each other seem far more sincere.

Stereotypical Ending

In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound message regarding relatives or society, as well. Instead, it's mostly serving up scares. Yet these are effective frights, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and enjoyable