Typically, I'm over apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre seems mostly depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. But, the platform's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated and proved quite enjoyable.
Excellent Pacing and Character Development
Among this movie's strongest assets is its excellent rhythm. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence in which a calm family party is violently interrupted by a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like stranger stumbles out and begins assaulting the attendees. This intense scene is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe the family before the tragedy occurred.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir truly gives viewers enough time to get to know the primary characters before the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose former best friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably led to a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and who loves gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on Nes. The family head consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and who appears to care about only two aspects: his work and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is extremely tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so engrossed with this household's issues and their personal conflicts that I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, but in the end worked well. The Elixir spends a significant amount of the film depicting us the identity of every relative is, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on clashing personalities allowed the audience to connect to the personalities enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently introduces individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to consume, thus it's a real shock once events finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid humor before making an abrupt turn into shocking ground. These early scenes don't focus too heavily on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives enough opportunity to settle into its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
This movie also offers a fairly interesting reason for the source of the contagious transformation. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source of this contagious disease originates in a new batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. Although we do learn something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film devoted a little more time explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion that appears to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the impact this affliction produces on people proves utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a bold decision, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear quite realistic, and are practically certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of questionable choices (like any typical undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and sharp. They also aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available rather than standing still like prey caught in lights while danger nears.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict when people start turning to the undead, which was a welcome authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they decide over the phone to meet up at a close spot. But when Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been building for years. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes those instances where these individuals do show appreciation toward one another seem much more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep message about family or society, as well. Rather, it's mostly delivering frights. Yet these are successful scares, and since the film gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result proves a captivating and enjoyable
