Generally speaking, I've had my fill of undead films. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category feels largely exhausted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations and proved quite enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Character Growth
One of the film's greatest strengths lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly interrupted by a vehicle plows right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very zombie-like stranger stumbles out proceeding attacking the attendees. This intense scene is then followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe this household prior to the tragedy struck.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly allows viewers sufficient opportunity to get to know the primary personalities prior to the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a former best friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. This has understandably led to a rift between Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured but a bit inept socially, and who loves playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. This household head consists of Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he appears focused on only two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed with this family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot this was a scary movie—which might seem like a negative, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a significant portion of the film depicting viewers who each relative is, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities allowed the audience to relate with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre that often introduces characters just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine surprise once events finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and various family interactions in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to making an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory moments don't focus as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives enough time to settle into its world before it gets upended.
Original Infection Source
The film additionally presents a quite intriguing reason for the source of the spreading transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source for this contagious disease originates in a recent sample from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the film devoted a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of context, the impact this condition produces on humans proves absolutely disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold choice, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear very realistic, and are almost guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some instances of questionable choices (as in typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with whatever blunt instrument they find rather than freezing like a deer caught in lights as death approaches.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict when people start turning to the undead, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close location. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been building for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to push the notion that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This causes the moments where these individuals express gratitude for each other feel far more genuine.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound message regarding relatives or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're effective frights, and since the film gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
