Typically, I've grown tired of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre seems largely depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for months. However, the platform's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Character Growth
One of this movie's greatest strengths lies in the superb rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable opening sequence where a calm family gathering gets suddenly interrupted when a van plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking stranger emerges and begins assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a look back, allowing us to see this household prior to the tragedy struck.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough time to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a former close friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted but socially awkward, and he enjoys gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch consists of Nes' father, who runs a popular natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is extremely tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed with this household's issues along with their personal conflicts that I nearly forgot I was watching a scary movie—which might seem like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film depicting viewers who each family member is, plus the ways they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing traits allowed the audience to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment 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 an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine shock once events finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a Korean drama with somewhat morbid comedy before making an abrupt turn toward shocking ground. These early scenes aren't centered too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives enough opportunity to immerse in the setting prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause for this contagious disease originates in a new sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. Although we do learn a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the film devoted additional focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to creating a lethal potion that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the impact this condition produces on humans is absolutely disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's undead are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite convincing, and they're almost guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few examples of dubious decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and sharp. They also don't hesitate to kick an undead in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like a deer in headlights as death nears.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, which was a welcome realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for everything! cliché often seen in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still clinging to bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree over the phone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the notion that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This makes those instances where these individuals do show appreciation for each other feel much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound insight about family or society, either. Rather, it's mostly serving up frights. Yet these are effective scares, and since the film allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
