Typically, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre seems mostly depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for months. But, the platform's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated turning out quite enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Character Development
Among this movie's greatest strengths is its excellent rhythm. It begins using a striking opening sequence in which a calm family gathering is violently interrupted by a vehicle plows into the seating section. Out of the van, a very zombie-like stranger stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense scene is immediately succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to see the family before the disaster struck.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually allows the audience sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters before the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a married mother whose former best friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured but socially awkward, and he loves gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household head consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on just two aspects: his business and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves incredibly tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama that I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—which might sound like a negative, but in the end worked well. The Elixir spends a significant portion of the film depicting us the identity of every family member is, and how they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed me to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon accomplishment for this style that often presents individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to devour, so it's a real shock when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and various family interactions actually evoke the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a Korean drama featuring slightly dark humor before making a sudden shift into "holy shit" territory. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough time to immerse in the setting before everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
This movie also offers a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the contagious transformation. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition stems from a new sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted additional time on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a lethal potion that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of context, the impact this affliction has on people is utterly disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a daring decision, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also very convincing, and they're practically certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive compared to the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see a few examples of questionable choices (as in any good zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family are inventive and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to kick an undead in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights as death approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, which was a welcome authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for everything! cliché 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 resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals express appreciation toward one another seem far more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound insight regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up scares. Yet these are successful scares, and since the movie allows every personality sufficient space to grow and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable
