Generally speaking, I'm over undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category feels mostly depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. However, the platform's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated and proved quite enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Growth
One of this movie's strongest strengths is its superb pacing. It kicks off using a memorable opening sequence in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly disrupted when a van plows into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking individual emerges proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense scene is immediately succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to see this household prior to the tragedy occurred.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough time to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who enjoys gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on Nes. The family head is her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and who seems to care about only two things: his work and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves extremely strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed with this 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 negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film depicting viewers the identity of every relative represents, and how they add to the general turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting personalities enabled the audience to connect to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat in a genre that often introduces individuals only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine surprise when things eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and various household exchanges actually evoke the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama featuring slightly dark humor prior to taking an abrupt turn into "holy shit" ground. These introductory moments don't focus as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough time to settle into the setting before everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
The film also offers a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source of this contagious disease stems from a new sample of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although some background is provided a bit about its origins, I wish the film had spent additional time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to creating a deadly potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the lack of context, the impact this affliction produces on people is absolutely disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a bold choice, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and they're almost certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
Even better compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some examples of dubious decision-making (like any any good undead film), however generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a welcome realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes loves her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still clinging to resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they agree over the phone to regroup at a nearby location. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and understandable because the film doesn't try to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This makes the moments when these characters express appreciation toward one another seem much more genuine.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep insight about family or society, either. Instead, it's mostly delivering frights. Yet these are successful scares, and since the movie allows every personality sufficient space to grow and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable
