For the most part, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category feels largely depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Pacing and Character Development
One of the film's strongest assets is its superb rhythm. It begins using a memorable opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly interrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense scene is then succeeded by a look back, allowing us to observe the family before the tragedy occurred.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with its main personalities before the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a ex close friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—a clearly awkward dynamic. This has predictably caused a falling out among the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and he enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on her. The family patriarch consists of her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on only two aspects: his business and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves incredibly strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so invested with this household's issues and their personal conflicts to the point I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a drawback, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of its runtime to showing us the identity of every family member is, and how they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This focus on conflicting personalities allowed me to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare feat in a genre that often introduces characters just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, disposable victims for an army of zombies to consume, so it's a genuine shock once events finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a Korean drama with slightly dark comedy before making a sudden shift toward shocking territory. These introductory moments don't focus as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides enough opportunity to immerse in the setting prior to it gets upended.
Original Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting reason regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a new sample from Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film devoted additional time on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to creating a lethal elixir that appears to contain a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of context, the effect this condition produces on people is utterly repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold choice, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear quite realistic, and are practically certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
Even better than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, we see a few instances of questionable choices (like any typical undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and sharp. They also aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for everything! cliché often seen in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes loves her family and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they agree via telephone to meet up at a nearby location. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to push the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters do show appreciation toward one another feel much more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep message regarding relatives or society, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are effective scares, and since the movie allows every personality sufficient space to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result is an engaging and enjoyable
