For the most part, I'm over apocalyptic horror. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category seems mostly exhausted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. But, the platform's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations and proved quite enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Personal Growth
One of this movie's greatest assets is its excellent rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable opening sequence in which a peaceful family party is violently interrupted by a vehicle crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like stranger emerges proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic moment is then succeeded by a look back, allowing us to observe the family before the tragedy struck.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly gives the audience sufficient time to become acquainted with its main characters prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a married mother with a ex best friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—a clearly awkward situation. This has understandably led to a falling out among the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured but a bit inept socially, and who enjoys gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household head consists of her dad, who runs a well-known natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on only two things: his business and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so invested in the household's issues along with their personal conflicts that I almost forgot I was watching a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime depicting us the identity of every relative represents, and how they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting personalities enabled me to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat for this style which frequently introduces characters only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama featuring slightly dark comedy before taking a sudden turn into shocking territory. These introductory scenes aren't centered too heavily on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient time to settle into its world before everything gets upended.
Original Zombification Source
The film also offers a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause for this infectious condition originates in a new batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. Although some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent additional time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion which seems to contain a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of context, the effect this affliction produces on people is utterly disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's undead are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a bold decision, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also quite realistic, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
Even better than the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are some examples of dubious decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to strike an undead in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument they find rather than freezing like prey in headlights as death approaches.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a pleasantly authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they agree over the phone to meet up at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses 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—feel realistic and understandable because the film doesn't try to push the notion that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments when these characters do show appreciation for each other feel much more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound message regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up scares. But they're effective frights, and because the film gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves a captivating and entertaining
