Typically, I've grown tired of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre seems largely depleted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for months. However, the platform's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Growth
One of the film's greatest strengths is its superb pacing. It begins with a striking initial scene in which a calm family party gets suddenly interrupted by a vehicle plows right into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like stranger stumbles out proceeding attacking the partygoers. This dramatic scene is immediately succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to observe the family before the tragedy struck.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives the audience sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a ex best friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably led to a falling out between the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and he enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on just two aspects: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so invested with this family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost overlooked I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a significant amount of the film depicting us who each relative represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This focus on conflicting personalities allowed the audience to relate with the characters sufficiently to care about their fate—a rare feat for this style that often introduces individuals just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of the undead to devour, so it's a real surprise when things eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a Korean drama with slightly dark humor prior to taking an abrupt turn toward shocking ground. These introductory moments don't focus too heavily on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient time to settle into the setting prior to it gets upended.
Original Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting reason for the source of the contagious zombification. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the source for this infectious condition originates in a recent sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. While we do learn something regarding its origins, I wish the movie devoted additional time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of context, the effect this affliction has on people is absolutely disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a bold choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very realistic, and are practically certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
More impressive than the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see some instances of questionable decision-making (as in typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her family are inventive and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever heavy object is available rather than standing still like prey caught in lights while danger nears.
Realistic Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict when people start turning into zombies, this proved a welcome authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for everything! cliché often seen in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes loves her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they decide via telephone to regroup at a close spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to push the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes those instances where these individuals do show gratitude for each other seem much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message regarding relatives or community, either. Instead, it's mostly serving up scares. But they're effective scares, and since the film gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is a captivating and entertaining
