Typically, I'm over apocalyptic horror. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category seems largely depleted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for months. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated and proved remarkably entertaining.
Superb Pacing and Personal Development
One of this movie's greatest assets lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted when a vehicle plows right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking individual emerges proceeding attacking the attendees. This dramatic scene is immediately succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to see this household before the disaster struck.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with its main personalities before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has understandably caused a rift between the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. The family patriarch consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he seems focused on just two aspects: his work and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is extremely tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so engrossed with this family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts that I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a drawback, but in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film depicting us the identity of every family member represents, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing traits enabled the audience to connect with the characters enough to care about their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style which frequently presents individuals just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for an army of zombies to consume, so it's a real surprise once events finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and the multiple family interactions actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy before taking a sudden turn toward shocking territory. These early moments don't focus too heavily on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides enough time to immerse in the setting prior to it gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Source
The film additionally presents a quite interesting reason for the source of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source of this infectious condition stems from a recent sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. Although some background is provided a bit about its origins, I wish the film devoted additional time on how Wani Waras went from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir that appears to include a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of context, the effect this condition produces on people proves absolutely repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear quite realistic, and are practically certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive than the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some examples of dubious decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and sharp. They also aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object they find rather than freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a welcome realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they decide via telephone to regroup at a close spot. But when Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been building for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—seem realistic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to push the idea that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This causes those instances where these individuals do show appreciation toward one another seem much more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message about family or community, as well. Rather, it's mostly delivering scares. Yet these are successful scares, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves a captivating and entertaining
