For the most part, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems largely depleted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. However, the platform's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations turning out quite enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Character Development
Among this movie's greatest assets is its superb pacing. It kicks off with a memorable opening sequence in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly disrupted by a van plows into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking individual emerges and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to see this household prior to the tragedy occurred.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with its main personalities before the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably led to a rift among Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and who enjoys gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on her. The family patriarch consists of her dad, who runs a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on just two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so invested in the household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot this was a scary movie—which might seem like a drawback, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime to showing us who each relative represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing traits enabled me to relate to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre that often introduces characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, disposable victims for an army of the undead to devour, thus it's a genuine surprise once events finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and various family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy before making a sudden shift toward shocking ground. These introductory scenes don't focus as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives enough opportunity to immerse in the setting before everything gets upended.
Original Infection Origin
This movie also offers a fairly intriguing reason regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a new sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. While some background is provided a bit about its origins, I wish the film had spent a little more time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of background, the effect this condition has on people proves absolutely disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a daring decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and they're practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
More impressive than the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few examples of questionable choices (as in any good undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her family are inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike an undead in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available rather than standing still like prey caught in lights as death nears.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord once individuals begin transforming into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes loves her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they agree over the phone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—seem realistic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This causes those instances where these individuals do show appreciation for each other feel much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep message about family or society, either. Rather, it's mostly serving up scares. Yet these are effective frights, and because the movie allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves a captivating and entertaining
