Generally speaking, I've had my fill of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre seems mostly exhausted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for some time. But, the platform's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out quite enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Character Development
Among this movie's strongest assets lies in the superb pacing. It begins using a striking opening sequence in which a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly interrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out and begins assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a look back, allowing us to observe the family before the disaster occurred.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir truly allows viewers sufficient time to get to know its main personalities before the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. This has predictably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household head consists of her dad, who runs a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who seems to care about only two aspects: his work and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so invested in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot this was a scary movie—which might seem like a drawback, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of the film depicting us who each relative represents, plus the ways they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled me to relate with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—a rare feat for this style that often presents individuals only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to devour, thus it's a real shock when things finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and the multiple family interactions in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a Korean drama with slightly dark comedy before taking a sudden turn toward shocking ground. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough time to immerse in the setting before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Source
This movie additionally presents a quite interesting reason for the source of the contagious transformation. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a recent batch from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although some background is provided something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the movie devoted a little more time on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a lethal potion that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of context, the effect this condition produces on humans proves absolutely disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a bold decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also very realistic, and they're almost certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are some instances of dubious decision-making (as in any good undead film), however generally, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever heavy object they find rather than standing still like prey caught in lights as death nears.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a welcome realistic 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 frequently used in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they decide over the phone to meet up at a nearby location. However, once Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals express appreciation toward one another seem far more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message regarding relatives or society, as well. Instead, it's primarily delivering frights. Yet these are successful scares, and since the film gives each character sufficient space to grow and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the outcome is a captivating and enjoyable
