Typically, I'm over apocalyptic horror. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre seems largely depleted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Growth
One of this movie's greatest assets lies in the superb pacing. It begins with a striking opening sequence in which a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted when a vehicle crashes into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual stumbles out proceeding attacking the attendees. This intense scene is then followed by a look back, giving viewers to see this household before the disaster struck.
In contrast to many 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 whose former best friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—a clearly awkward situation. This has predictably led to a rift among the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and he loves playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. The family patriarch consists of Nes' father, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he seems to care about just two aspects: his work and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so invested in the household's issues along with their personal conflicts to the point I almost forgot I was watching a scary movie—which might seem like a drawback, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film depicting us who each family member represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities allowed me to relate with the characters enough to care about their fate—an uncommon feat for this style which frequently introduces individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a real surprise once events finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and various family interactions actually evoke the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a K-Drama with slightly dark humor prior to making a sudden shift into shocking territory. These introductory scenes don't focus as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient opportunity to settle into its world prior to it gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Source
The film also offers a fairly interesting explanation regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition stems from a recent batch from Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. Although some background is provided something regarding how it started, I wish the film devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir which seems to contain a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of context, the effect this affliction has on humans is utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a bold decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also quite convincing, and are almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are some instances of questionable decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to strike an undead in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object they find rather than standing still like prey in headlights as death approaches.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for everything! cliché frequently used in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes loves her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close location. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building for years. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the notion that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments when these characters do show appreciation for each other seem far more genuine.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep message about family or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up scares. Yet these are effective frights, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the result is an engaging and enjoyable
