Generally speaking, I'm over undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre seems largely depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. But, the platform's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out quite enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Personal Development
Among this movie's strongest assets is its excellent rhythm. It begins using a memorable opening sequence in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly disrupted by a van plows right into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking individual emerges and begins attacking the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a look back, allowing us to see this household prior to the disaster occurred.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has understandably caused a falling out between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who loves gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. This household head is her dad, who runs a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two aspects: his business and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is incredibly strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so invested in the household's issues along with their personal conflicts to the point I almost overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a negative, but in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of its runtime to showing viewers who each family member is, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed me to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre that often introduces characters only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a genuine shock once events finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy before taking a sudden turn toward "holy shit" ground. These early moments don't focus too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives sufficient time to immerse in its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Origin
This movie also offers a quite interesting reason regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the cause for this contagious disease stems from a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. While some background is provided a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the movie had spent additional time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to creating a lethal potion which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the impact this affliction produces on people proves absolutely repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and they're almost certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
More impressive compared to the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are some instances of questionable choices (as in typical undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick an undead in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument they find instead of standing still like prey caught in lights as death approaches.
Realistic Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict when people 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 all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they decide via telephone to regroup at a close location. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to push the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments where these individuals express gratitude toward one another feel far more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep insight regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're effective scares, and because the movie gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result is an engaging and entertaining
