Typically, I'm over apocalyptic horror. While favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category feels mostly depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Personal Growth
One of this movie's greatest strengths is its excellent pacing. It kicks off with a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family party gets suddenly interrupted when a vehicle crashes into the seating section. Out of the van, a very zombie-like individual stumbles out proceeding attacking the attendees. This intense scene is immediately followed by a look back, allowing us to observe this household prior to the disaster occurred.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually allows the audience sufficient opportunity to get to know the primary characters before the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose former close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has understandably led to a rift among Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted but socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. The family head is Nes' father, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he seems to care about just two things: his work and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely tense.
Invested in the Drama
I became so engrossed in the household's issues and their personal conflicts to the point I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—which might sound like a negative, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of the film depicting viewers the identity of every relative represents, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting personalities enabled me to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre which frequently presents individuals only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a genuine surprise once events finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and the multiple family interactions in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy prior to taking an abrupt turn into shocking ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives enough time to immerse in the setting before it gets upended.
Original Infection Source
This movie also offers a quite interesting reason for the source of the spreading transformation. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition originates in a recent sample from Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding its origins, I wish the movie had spent a little more time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to creating a lethal potion which seems to contain a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the impact this condition produces on humans proves absolutely repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring decision, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also very realistic, and are practically guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see a few examples of dubious choices (as in any good zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and sharp. They also don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever heavy object they find instead of standing still like prey caught in lights while danger nears.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes loves her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide over the phone to regroup at a nearby location. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem realistic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters express gratitude toward one another seem much more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep message about family or community, as well. Instead, it's mostly serving up frights. But they're effective frights, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the outcome is a captivating and enjoyable
