For the most part, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, this category seems mostly depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations and proved quite entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Growth
One of the film's greatest assets lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off with a memorable initial scene in which a calm family gathering is violently interrupted by a van plows into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like individual emerges and begins attacking the attendees. This intense scene is immediately followed by a look back, giving viewers to see this household before the tragedy occurred.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly gives viewers sufficient opportunity to get to know the primary personalities prior to the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a ex best friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably led to a rift among Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and who loves playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on Nes. This household head consists of her dad, who runs a well-known natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and he seems to care about just two things: his business and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves extremely strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so invested with this family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot this was a horror film—which might sound like a negative, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir spends a significant portion of its runtime to showing viewers who each family member is, plus the ways they contribute to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting traits allowed the audience to relate with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—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 zombies to devour, thus it's a real shock once events eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and various family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama with slightly dark comedy prior to taking an abrupt turn toward shocking territory. These early moments don't focus too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still provides sufficient opportunity to immerse in its world before it gets upended.
Original Zombification Source
The film also offers a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the cause for this infectious condition originates in a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. Although we do learn something regarding how it started, I wish the movie had spent additional time on how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion that appears to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the limited context, the effect this affliction has on people is absolutely repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a daring choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very realistic, and they're almost certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, we see a few instances of dubious decision-making (as in typical undead film), but generally, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike an undead in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with whatever heavy object is available rather than freezing like a deer caught in lights as death approaches.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a welcome authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for everything! trope often seen in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes loves her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they agree over the phone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been building over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—seem authentic and relatable because the film doesn't try to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances where these individuals express appreciation for each other seem far more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight about family or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. Yet these are effective frights, and since the film gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves a captivating and enjoyable
