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, this category seems mostly depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for months. But, the platform's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations turning out quite enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Personal Development
Among this movie's strongest assets is its superb pacing. It begins using a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted when a van crashes right into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual emerges proceeding attacking the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then followed by a flashback, allowing us to observe this household before the tragedy occurred.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly gives viewers sufficient opportunity to get to know its main characters prior to the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a married mother whose ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously awkward dynamic. This has understandably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted but socially awkward, and he loves playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household patriarch is Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on only two aspects: his work and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so engrossed in the household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly overlooked I was watching a scary movie—which might seem like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of the film to showing viewers the identity of every family member is, plus the ways they contribute to the general turmoil. This focus on clashing personalities enabled me to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare feat for this style which frequently introduces characters just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to devour, thus it's a genuine surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and various family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring slightly dark humor prior to taking an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides enough time to immerse in its world prior to it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
This movie also offers a quite intriguing reason for the source of the contagious zombification. Instead of a unintended lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this infectious condition originates in a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. While some background is provided a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the film devoted a little more focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a lethal elixir that appears to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of context, the effect this condition has on people is utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's undead prove fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a bold decision, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear very realistic, and they're almost certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some instances of questionable decision-making (as in typical undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick an undead in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people begin transforming into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they decide over the phone to meet up at a nearby location. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem authentic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to push the notion that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals do show appreciation for each other seem far more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message regarding relatives or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up scares. But they're effective frights, and because the movie allows every personality sufficient space to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result is an engaging and entertaining
