Generally speaking, I've grown tired of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre seems mostly depleted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 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 what I anticipated and proved quite entertaining.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Growth
One of this movie's greatest assets lies in the excellent rhythm. It begins with a memorable opening sequence in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly disrupted by a vehicle plows into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like individual emerges and begins assaulting the attendees. This intense scene is immediately succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to observe this household prior to the disaster struck.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly gives the audience enough time to get to know its main personalities before the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a ex best friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable situation. This has predictably caused a rift between the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he enjoys gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on her. The family patriarch consists of her dad, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he seems to care about only two things: his work and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves incredibly strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts that I nearly overlooked this was a scary movie—which might seem like a drawback, but in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of the film to showing viewers who each family member is, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing traits enabled me to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment for this style which frequently introduces characters just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to devour, thus it's a genuine shock once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama with slightly dark comedy prior to making a sudden turn toward "holy shit" ground. These early moments don't focus too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives enough opportunity to settle into the setting before everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
The film additionally presents a quite intriguing reason regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a new batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, I wish the movie devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a deadly potion which seems to contain a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited background, the effect this affliction produces on humans is utterly repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a bold decision, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and are practically certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
Even better compared to the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see a few instances of questionable choices (like any any good undead film), but generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever heavy object is available rather than standing still like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict when people begin transforming into zombies, this proved a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby location. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to promote the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments when these characters express gratitude for each other feel much more genuine.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep message regarding relatives or society, either. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are effective scares, and because the film allows every personality enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
