Generally speaking, I'm over apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category feels mostly depleted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. However, the platform's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Personal Development
Among this movie's strongest strengths lies in the excellent rhythm. It begins using a striking initial scene where a calm family gathering gets suddenly disrupted when a vehicle crashes into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger emerges and begins assaulting the attendees. This intense scene is then succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to see this household prior to the disaster occurred.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough opportunity to get to know the primary characters prior to the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a former best friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable situation. This has understandably led to a rift among the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured but socially awkward, and he loves playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on Nes. This household head consists of her dad, who runs a well-known natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on just two things: his work and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot I was watching a scary movie—which might sound like a drawback, but in the end worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of the film to showing viewers the identity of every relative represents, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled me to relate to the personalities enough to care about their fate—an uncommon feat for this style which frequently introduces characters just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to consume, so it's a real surprise when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and various household exchanges in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring slightly dark comedy before taking an abrupt turn toward shocking territory. These introductory scenes aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides enough time to immerse in its world before everything gets upended.
Original Infection Source
The film additionally presents a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the cause for this infectious condition originates in a recent sample from Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. While some background is provided a bit about its origins, I wish the movie devoted a little more time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir which seems to contain a highly contagious virus. Despite the limited background, the effect this affliction produces on humans is absolutely repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a daring choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and are practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better than the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, we see some instances of questionable choices (as in any good zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick an undead in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with whatever heavy object is available rather than freezing like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict when people begin transforming into zombies, this proved a welcome realistic subversion from the "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 relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide over the phone to meet up at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the idea that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes those instances when these characters do show gratitude for each other seem much more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message about family or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're effective scares, and since the film allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome is an engaging and entertaining
