Typically, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems largely exhausted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. But, the platform's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out quite enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Growth
One of this movie's greatest strengths lies in the superb pacing. It begins with a striking opening sequence in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly interrupted when a vehicle crashes into the guest area. Out of the van, a very zombie-like stranger stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This intense moment is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe the family prior to the disaster struck.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually allows the audience sufficient time to get to know its main personalities prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose former best friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has understandably led to a falling out between Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and he loves playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. The family head consists of her dad, who runs a popular herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two things: his work and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves extremely strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so invested in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama that I almost forgot this was a scary movie—something that could sound like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a significant portion of its runtime depicting viewers who each relative is, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits allowed me to connect with the characters enough to care about their outcome—a rare feat for this style which frequently introduces characters only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to consume, thus it's a real shock once events finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy prior to making an abrupt turn toward shocking ground. These early scenes aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives enough time to immerse in its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
The film also offers a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the cause for this infectious condition originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. Although some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the movie devoted a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a lethal potion that appears to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the impact this condition produces on people proves utterly repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear quite realistic, and they're almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some instances of dubious decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike an undead in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument they find rather than freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger nears.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people start turning to the undead, this proved a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for everything! cliché often seen in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes loves her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains clinging to bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close location. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—seem realistic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters express appreciation for each other feel far more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep message about family or community, either. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're successful frights, and since the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is a captivating and enjoyable
