Typically, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre feels mostly depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for months. However, the platform's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated and proved quite entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Development
Among the film's greatest assets lies in the excellent pacing. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence in which a peaceful family party is violently interrupted by a vehicle crashes into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking individual emerges and begins assaulting the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe this household prior to the tragedy struck.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir truly gives viewers enough time to become acquainted with the primary personalities prior to the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—a clearly awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably led to a rift between the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured but a bit inept socially, and he loves playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. The family head is her dad, the owner of a well-known natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two things: his business and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so engrossed with this household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot this was a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of the film to showing viewers the identity of every family member represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled me to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently presents characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine surprise once events eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and various family interactions in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring slightly dark comedy prior to taking a sudden turn into shocking ground. These introductory moments don't focus as much on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient opportunity to settle into its world prior to everything gets upended.
Original Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the source for this contagious disease stems from a new sample of Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. Although some background is provided a bit about its origins, I wish the film had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a lethal potion which seems to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the limited background, the impact this affliction has on people is utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's undead prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring decision, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear very realistic, and are almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better than the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few examples of questionable decision-making (like any any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object they find rather than standing still like a deer in headlights as death approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord when people start turning to the undead, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem realistic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to push the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This makes the moments when these characters express appreciation for each other feel much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep insight about family or society, either. Instead, it's primarily delivering scares. But they're effective frights, and since the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result proves a captivating and enjoyable
