Typically, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre feels largely exhausted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. However, Netflix's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Development
Among this movie's strongest strengths lies in the excellent pacing. It kicks off with a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family party is violently interrupted by a van crashes right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This intense moment is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe this household before the disaster struck.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough time to get to know the primary personalities before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a married mother with a former best friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward dynamic. This has understandably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and who loves playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. The family patriarch is her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on only two aspects: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so engrossed with this family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts that I almost forgot I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime to showing viewers who each family member is, plus the ways they add to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing traits allowed the audience to connect with the characters enough to care about their fate—a rare accomplishment in a genre which frequently introduces characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to devour, thus it's a genuine shock once events finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and various household exchanges in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a K-Drama with slightly dark humor prior to making a sudden turn toward shocking territory. These introductory moments don't focus too heavily on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives sufficient opportunity to settle into the setting prior to everything gets upended.
Original Zombification Origin
This movie additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the cause for this infectious condition originates in a new batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. Although we do learn a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the movie devoted a little more time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the lack of context, the impact this affliction has on humans proves absolutely disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's undead prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a bold decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very realistic, and are almost guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
Even better than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see a few instances of dubious decision-making (like any any good zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her family are resourceful and sharp. They also aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available rather than standing still like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord when people start turning into zombies, this proved a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still holding onto resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel authentic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to promote the notion that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals do show appreciation toward one another seem far more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep insight regarding relatives or society, either. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are successful frights, and since the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
