Generally speaking, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre feels mostly depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations and proved remarkably entertaining.
Impressive Pacing and Character Growth
One of this movie's greatest assets lies in the excellent rhythm. It begins using a striking opening sequence in which a calm family gathering is violently disrupted by a vehicle crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding attacking the attendees. This intense scene is then followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe this household prior to the disaster occurred.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually allows the audience enough opportunity to become acquainted with its main characters before the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a ex close friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—an obviously awkward situation. Naturally, this has understandably led to a falling out between Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and who loves gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on Nes. This household patriarch consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is extremely tense.
Invested in the Drama
I became so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts to the point I nearly overlooked this was a scary movie—which might sound like a negative, but in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film depicting viewers who each relative represents, and how they contribute to the general turmoil. This focus on conflicting traits enabled me to connect with the characters sufficiently to care about their fate—a rare feat for this style which frequently introduces individuals only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of the undead to devour, so it's a real surprise when things eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and the multiple family interactions in fact evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a Korean drama with somewhat morbid comedy before taking an abrupt shift toward shocking ground. These introductory moments don't focus as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides sufficient opportunity to settle into the setting before everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a fairly interesting reason for the source of the spreading zombification. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or some sort 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 how it started, it would have been better if the film devoted a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a deadly potion which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the limited context, the impact this condition has on humans is absolutely repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also very convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are some instances of dubious choices (like any typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike an undead in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument they find rather than freezing like prey in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for everything! trope frequently used in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes loves her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they agree over the phone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes is not flawless, 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 causes the moments when these characters do show appreciation for each other feel much more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep insight regarding relatives or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up scares. But they're effective scares, and because the movie gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result is a captivating and entertaining
