Generally speaking, I'm over apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre feels largely depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations and proved remarkably entertaining.
Impressive Pacing and Personal Growth
One of the film's greatest strengths is its superb rhythm. It begins using a striking initial scene where a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly interrupted by a van plows right into the guest area. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger emerges and begins attacking the partygoers. This intense scene is immediately followed by a look back, allowing us to see the family prior to the tragedy struck.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir truly allows the audience sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a former best friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and who loves gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. The family head is her dad, who runs a popular natural medicine company named Wani Waras, and who seems to care about only two things: his work and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama that I almost forgot this was a scary movie—something that could seem like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a significant portion of its runtime depicting viewers who each family member represents, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled me to relate to the personalities enough to care about their outcome—an uncommon feat in a genre that often presents individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to devour, thus it's a genuine shock when things finally go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges in fact evoke the film Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama with slightly dark comedy prior to taking an abrupt shift toward shocking ground. These early moments don't focus as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient time to settle into its world prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Source
The film additionally presents a fairly interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the source for this contagious disease stems from a new batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. While we do learn something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the movie had spent a little more time on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the limited background, the effect this condition has on humans proves utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and are almost certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
Even better than the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some examples of dubious decision-making (like any any good zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick an undead in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like a deer in headlights as death approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning to the undead, this proved a pleasantly realistic 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 end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—seem realistic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to promote the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This causes those instances where these individuals express appreciation toward one another feel much more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're effective frights, and because the movie gives each character sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
