Typically, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre feels largely depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. However, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated and proved quite entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Character Growth
One of the film's strongest assets lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off using a memorable opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted by a van crashes into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking stranger emerges proceeding attacking the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to observe the family before the tragedy struck.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly allows viewers enough time to become acquainted with its main characters prior to the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a former best friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—a clearly awkward situation. Naturally, this has predictably led to a rift between the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and he enjoys gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on Nes. This household head is Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and who appears to care about just two aspects: his work and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves extremely tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed with this family's dynamics and their personal conflicts to the point I nearly overlooked this was a scary movie—which might sound like a negative, but in the end worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of the film depicting us the identity of every family member is, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting personalities allowed me to connect with the characters sufficiently to care about their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre that often introduces individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to consume, so it's a genuine shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy before taking a sudden turn toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory moments don't focus as much on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient opportunity to settle into the setting prior to it gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Source
This movie also offers a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a recent batch from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. Although some background is provided a bit about how it started, I wish the movie devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to producing a lethal potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Despite the lack of background, the impact this condition has on people is utterly repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's undead prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a daring decision, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also quite realistic, and they're practically certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
More impressive compared to the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are some instances of dubious decision-making (like any typical undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to kick an undead in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, which was a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they decide via telephone to regroup at a close location. However, once Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to push the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals express appreciation for each other seem far more sincere.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight about family or community, either. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are successful frights, and since the film gives each character enough room to grow and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
