Typically, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category seems mostly depleted nowadays. Even 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, succeeded in defy what I anticipated and proved remarkably entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Character Growth
One of the film's strongest strengths lies in the superb rhythm. It begins with a memorable initial scene where a calm family gathering gets suddenly disrupted by a vehicle plows right into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking individual stumbles out and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense scene is then followed by a flashback, allowing us to see this household before the disaster struck.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient opportunity to get to know its main characters prior to the chaos begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex best friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted but socially awkward, and he loves gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on Nes. The family head is Nes' father, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and who appears to care about only two aspects: his work and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves incredibly tense.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed with this household's issues and their personal conflicts to the point I almost overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a drawback, but in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime to showing us who each relative is, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing personalities enabled me to relate with the characters sufficiently to care about their fate—an uncommon feat for this style that often presents individuals just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to devour, thus it's a genuine shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and the multiple family interactions in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy before taking an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" ground. These early moments aren't centered too heavily on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough time to settle into its world prior to it gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing reason for the source of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition originates in a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the movie devoted additional focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a deadly elixir which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the lack of context, the effect this condition has on humans is absolutely repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear quite convincing, and they're almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, we see a few instances of dubious choices (as in any good undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her family are inventive and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with whatever heavy object is available instead of standing still like a deer in headlights as death nears.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict 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 pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they decide via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable because the film doesn't try to push the notion that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals express appreciation toward one another feel far more genuine.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep message about family or community, either. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are effective frights, and since the movie allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves a captivating and entertaining
