For the most part, I'm over apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category feels largely exhausted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. But, the platform's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Growth
Among the film's greatest strengths lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off using a memorable opening sequence in which a calm family party is violently interrupted when a van plows into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic scene is immediately succeeded by a look back, allowing us to see the family prior to the disaster occurred.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary characters before the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a former best friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has understandably led to a rift between the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and who loves playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on her. This household head consists of her dad, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he appears to care about just two things: his business and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so engrossed with this household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a negative, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film depicting viewers the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they add to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing personalities enabled the audience to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style which frequently presents characters just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to devour, thus it's a genuine surprise when things finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama with somewhat morbid humor before making a sudden turn toward "holy shit" territory. These introductory moments aren't centered too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough time to settle into the setting before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a quite interesting reason regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. Although some background is provided a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent a little more time on how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir that appears to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this condition has on people proves absolutely disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a bold decision, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite convincing, and they're almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
More impressive than the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of questionable choices (as in typical zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available rather than standing still like prey caught in lights as death approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people begin transforming into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for everything! trope frequently used in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they decide over the phone to meet up at a nearby location. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and relatable because the film doesn't try to promote the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This makes the moments where these individuals express gratitude toward one another feel much more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep insight regarding relatives or community, either. Instead, it's mostly delivering scares. Yet these are effective frights, and since the film gives each character enough room to grow and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result is an engaging and entertaining
