For the most part, I'm over apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, this category feels mostly depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. But, Netflix's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations and proved quite entertaining.
Excellent Pacing and Character Growth
One of this movie's greatest assets is its excellent rhythm. It kicks off with a striking initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted when a vehicle crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like individual emerges and begins attacking the partygoers. This dramatic scene is immediately succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to observe this household prior to the tragedy struck.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir truly allows the audience enough opportunity to become acquainted with its main characters prior to the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a ex best friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—an obviously awkward situation. This has predictably led to a rift between Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured but a bit inept socially, and he enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household patriarch consists of Nes' father, who runs a popular natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on only two things: his business and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so engrossed with this household's issues along with their personal conflicts to the point I nearly overlooked this was a horror film—which might sound like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits enabled the audience to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment for this style which frequently presents individuals just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a real surprise once events finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama with somewhat morbid humor before making a sudden turn toward shocking ground. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient time to immerse in its world prior to it gets upended.
Original Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a quite interesting explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition originates in a recent sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. Although some background is provided something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the movie had spent a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion that appears to contain a highly contagious virus. Despite the limited context, the effect this condition has on people proves absolutely disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a bold decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear quite convincing, and are practically certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better than the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see a few instances of questionable decision-making (like any typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with whatever heavy object is available rather than freezing like prey caught in lights as death approaches.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people start turning to the undead, which was a welcome authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still clinging to bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they decide over the phone to meet up at a close location. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been building for years. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try to promote the notion that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances when these characters express appreciation for each other feel far more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message about family or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. Yet these are effective frights, and since the movie gives each character sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
