Generally speaking, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category seems mostly exhausted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. But, the platform's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.
Superb Pacing and Personal Development
Among this movie's greatest assets lies in the excellent rhythm. It begins with a memorable opening sequence in which a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted when a van crashes into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking individual stumbles out and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, allowing us to observe this household prior to the tragedy struck.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly allows viewers enough opportunity to get to know its main personalities prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex best friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who loves gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household head consists of Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on just two aspects: his business and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is extremely tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so engrossed with this family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama that I almost overlooked this was a horror film—which might seem like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every relative represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits enabled the audience to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment for this style which frequently introduces individuals only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to devour, so it's a real surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades as a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid humor prior to making an abrupt shift toward shocking ground. These introductory scenes don't focus as much on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to settle into the setting before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Source
The film also offers a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the source for this contagious disease stems from a recent sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. While we do learn something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent a little more focus on how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir which seems to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the limited context, the effect this condition has on people proves utterly repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's undead are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear quite convincing, and are practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive compared to the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some instances of questionable decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and sharp. They also don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with whatever heavy object they find rather than freezing like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, this proved a pleasantly realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they agree via telephone to meet up at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—feel authentic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to promote the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters express appreciation for each other feel far more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep message about family or community, either. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are effective frights, and because the film gives each character sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
