For the most part, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category seems largely exhausted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for months. But, the platform's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations and proved remarkably entertaining.
Excellent Pacing and Character Development
One of the film's greatest strengths lies in the superb pacing. It begins with a striking initial scene where a peaceful family party gets suddenly interrupted when a vehicle plows into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking stranger emerges and begins assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then followed by a look back, giving viewers to observe the family prior to the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough time to get to know its main personalities prior to the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable situation. This has predictably led to a rift between the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who enjoys gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch consists of her dad, the owner of a popular natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on just two things: his work and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so invested in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama that I almost forgot this was a horror film—something that could seem like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a significant amount of its runtime depicting us the identity of every relative is, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits enabled the audience to relate with the characters enough to care about their fate—a rare accomplishment in a genre that often introduces characters only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to consume, so it's a real shock once events eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various household exchanges in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid humor before making an abrupt shift into "holy shit" ground. These early scenes don't focus as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives sufficient time to settle into the setting before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Origin
This movie additionally presents a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Instead of an accidental lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the cause for this contagious disease originates in a recent batch from Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. Although some background is provided a bit about how it started, I wish the movie devoted a little more time on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to creating a lethal potion which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this condition has on humans is utterly repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a bold choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and they're almost guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see a few instances of questionable choices (as in any good undead film), however generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and sharp. They also don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available instead of freezing like prey caught in lights while danger nears.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people start turning into zombies, this proved a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for everything! cliché often seen in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they agree via telephone to meet up at a close location. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—seem realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try to push the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This causes the moments where these individuals express gratitude toward one another feel far more genuine.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound insight about family or society, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up frights. Yet these are effective frights, and because the movie gives each character sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is an engaging and enjoyable
