Typically, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre feels largely depleted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. However, the platform's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Pacing and Personal Development
Among this movie's greatest assets lies in the superb rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable opening sequence where a calm family party is violently interrupted when a van plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like stranger stumbles out proceeding attacking the attendees. This dramatic scene is immediately succeeded by a look back, allowing us to observe this household before the disaster occurred.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly gives viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary characters before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former best friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably led to a falling out between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and he loves playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on Nes. This household head consists of her dad, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on only two things: his work and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so engrossed with this household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost overlooked this was a horror film—something that could seem like a drawback, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of the film depicting viewers the identity of every family member is, plus the ways they add to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting traits enabled the audience to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre that often introduces individuals 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, thus it's a real shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and the multiple family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to making a sudden shift toward "holy shit" ground. These early scenes don't focus as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives sufficient opportunity to settle into the setting before everything gets upended.
Unique Zombification Source
The film also offers a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the source of this contagious disease originates in a new sample from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While we do learn a bit about its origins, I wish the film had spent additional time on how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion which seems to include an extremely infectious virus. Despite the limited background, the impact this condition produces on people proves utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also quite convincing, and are almost certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see a few examples of questionable decision-making (like any any good zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike an undead in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument they find rather than freezing like a deer caught in lights as death nears.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord once individuals begin transforming to the undead, this proved a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for everything! cliché frequently used in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes loves her family and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they decide over the phone to regroup at a close spot. But when Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments when these characters do show appreciation toward one another feel far more sincere.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep insight regarding relatives or community, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up scares. Yet these are effective scares, and since the film gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and entertaining
