Typically, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category feels largely exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. But, Netflix's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Pacing and Personal Growth
Among this movie's greatest assets is its superb rhythm. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly disrupted when a van plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual emerges proceeding attacking the attendees. This dramatic scene is immediately succeeded by a look back, allowing us to see this household prior to the tragedy struck.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient opportunity to get to know its main characters before the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother with a ex best friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has understandably caused a rift among the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and he loves playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on Nes. The family patriarch is her dad, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he appears focused on only two aspects: his business and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is incredibly tense.
Invested in the Drama
I became so invested in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama that I almost overlooked I was watching a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime depicting us the identity of every family member is, plus the ways they add to the general turmoil. This focus on clashing traits enabled me to relate with the characters enough to care about their outcome—a rare feat in a genre which frequently presents characters just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a real surprise when things eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and various family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring slightly dark comedy before making a sudden shift into shocking territory. These introductory scenes aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough time to settle into the setting before it gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Source
This movie additionally presents a quite interesting explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition stems from a new batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. While we do learn something regarding how it started, I wish the movie devoted additional time explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal elixir which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of context, the impact this affliction has on people is utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring choice, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear very convincing, and they're almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
More impressive compared to the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see some instances of dubious decision-making (like any any good zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike an undead in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument they find instead of standing still like a deer in headlights as death approaches.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people start turning to the undead, this proved a welcome realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they decide via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been building over time. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel realistic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals do show appreciation for each other feel far more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound insight regarding relatives or community, either. Rather, it's mostly delivering frights. But they're effective frights, and because the film gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result proves a captivating and enjoyable
