Generally speaking, I'm over apocalyptic horror. While favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems largely depleted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. But, Netflix's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Development
Among the film's greatest assets lies in the excellent rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family party is violently disrupted by a vehicle crashes right into the guest area. Out of the van, a very zombie-like individual emerges and begins attacking the partygoers. This intense scene is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to see the family before the tragedy struck.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough time to get to know its main personalities before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a former best friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably led to a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured yet socially awkward, and who enjoys playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. The family patriarch is Nes' father, who runs a popular natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and he appears to care about just two aspects: his business and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves incredibly strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so invested with this household's issues and their personal conflicts to the point I nearly overlooked this was a scary movie—something that could sound like a drawback, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime depicting us who each relative represents, and how they add to the general turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting personalities enabled the audience to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style which frequently presents characters just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to devour, so it's a real surprise when things finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various household exchanges in fact evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a Korean drama with somewhat morbid comedy before taking a sudden turn toward shocking territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives enough time to immerse in the setting before it gets upended.
Unique Zombification Origin
This movie also offers a fairly interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Instead of a unintended lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film devoted a little more time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to producing a lethal potion that appears to include an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this condition produces on humans is utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a daring decision, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also quite convincing, and are practically guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
Even better compared to the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, we see some instances of questionable decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument they find instead of freezing like prey caught in lights while danger nears.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord when people begin transforming into zombies, which was a welcome authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still clinging to resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide over the phone to meet up at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes those instances when these characters do show appreciation toward one another seem far more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound message regarding relatives or community, either. Instead, it's mostly serving up frights. But they're successful frights, and because the film allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable
