Typically, I'm over apocalyptic horror. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre seems largely depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. However, the platform's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Pacing and Personal Development
One of the film's strongest strengths is its excellent rhythm. It begins with a striking initial scene in which a calm family gathering is violently disrupted by a vehicle plows right into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual stumbles out and begins assaulting the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe this household before the disaster occurred.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir truly gives the audience enough time to get to know the primary characters prior to the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a married mother with a ex best friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and who enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household head consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known natural medicine company named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on only two things: his business and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so invested with this household's issues along with their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film depicting us who each relative is, plus the ways they add to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing traits enabled the audience to connect to the personalities enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat in a genre which frequently introduces individuals just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a real surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a Korean drama with somewhat morbid humor prior to taking a sudden turn into shocking territory. These introductory scenes don't focus as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to settle into its world before it gets upended.
Unique Zombification Source
This movie additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source of this contagious disease originates in a new sample from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. 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 supplier of holistic medicine to creating a lethal elixir that appears to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the lack of background, the impact this affliction has on people is utterly disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and are almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
Even better than the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of dubious decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and sharp. They also aren't afraid to strike an undead in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument they find rather than freezing like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict when people start turning into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes loves her family and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to meet up at a close location. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to push the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments when these characters express gratitude toward one another feel much more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep message about family or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up scares. Yet these are successful frights, and since the film gives each character enough room to grow and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result proves an engaging and entertaining
