Typically, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. While favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre feels largely depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for months. But, the platform's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated and proved quite enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Growth
Among this movie's strongest strengths lies in the superb rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene in which a calm family gathering is violently disrupted by a van crashes right into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe the family prior to the disaster occurred.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir truly allows the audience sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with the primary personalities prior to the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a married mother with a former close friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—an obviously awkward dynamic. This has predictably led to a rift between the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and he loves gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household head consists of her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who seems to care about just two aspects: his business and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is incredibly strained.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a significant portion of the film depicting us who each family member is, plus the ways they contribute to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting personalities enabled me to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat for this style which frequently introduces individuals only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of zombies to consume, so it's a genuine surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple family interactions actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring slightly dark comedy prior to making a sudden turn into shocking ground. These early moments aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough time to immerse in its world prior to it gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Origin
This movie additionally presents a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. Although 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 purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal elixir which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the lack of background, the impact this condition has on humans proves absolutely repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a bold choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and they're practically certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
More impressive than the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, we see some instances of questionable choices (as in typical zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her family are inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available rather than standing still like prey in headlights while danger nears.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people begin transforming to the undead, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly 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, but it's also clear she's still clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to meet up at a close location. But when Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This causes those instances when these characters express appreciation toward one another feel much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound insight regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's mostly delivering frights. But they're successful frights, and because the movie allows every personality sufficient space to develop and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the outcome is an engaging and entertaining
