Generally speaking, I've had my fill of undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre feels largely exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. However, the platform's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Personal Development
One of this movie's strongest strengths is its excellent rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene where a calm family gathering is violently interrupted by a van plows right into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like individual emerges proceeding attacking the partygoers. This intense moment is then succeeded by a look back, allowing us to see this household prior to the disaster struck.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir truly gives viewers sufficient time to get to know its main personalities before the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. This has predictably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and who enjoys gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. This household patriarch is Nes' father, the owner of a popular natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on just two aspects: 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 invested in the family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts to the point I almost overlooked I was watching a scary movie—something that could seem like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of the film to showing viewers the identity of every family member represents, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting traits allowed me to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment in a genre which frequently introduces characters only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine shock once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring slightly dark humor before taking an abrupt turn toward shocking territory. These introductory moments don't focus as much on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still provides sufficient time to settle into the setting before it gets upended.
Original Infection Origin
This movie also offers a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the contagious transformation. Instead of a unintended lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, 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, it would have been better if the film had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion that appears to include a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the lack of context, the effect this affliction produces on people proves absolutely repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a daring choice, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also quite convincing, and they're almost guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
More impressive than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some instances of questionable choices (like any typical zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick an undead in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument is available rather than standing still like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for everything! trope often seen in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still clinging to resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they agree via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and understandable because the film doesn't try to promote the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals express gratitude toward one another seem far more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message regarding relatives or society, as well. Instead, it's mostly serving up scares. 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 an engaging and enjoyable
