Typically, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre seems largely depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for months. However, the platform's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out quite enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Character Development
Among this movie's strongest strengths lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off with a memorable opening sequence in which a calm family party gets suddenly disrupted when a van plows into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual stumbles out and begins assaulting the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a flashback, allowing us to see this household prior to the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually allows the audience enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex close friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—a clearly awkward situation. This has understandably led to a falling out between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured but a bit inept socially, and who enjoys gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on Nes. The family head consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on just two things: his work and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so invested in the household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a drawback, but in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of its runtime to showing viewers who each family member is, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on conflicting traits enabled the audience to connect to the personalities sufficiently to care about their fate—an uncommon accomplishment for this style which frequently presents characters only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to consume, so it's a real shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and the multiple family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a Korean drama with slightly dark comedy prior to making a sudden shift into shocking territory. These early scenes aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir still provides sufficient opportunity to settle into its world before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
The film also offers a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause for this contagious disease originates in a recent sample of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding its origins, I wish the movie had spent a little more time explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to creating a lethal potion that appears to contain a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this condition produces on humans proves absolutely disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's undead prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a bold choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear quite realistic, and are practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, there are some instances of dubious decision-making (like any any good undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike an undead in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument they find instead of freezing like prey in headlights while danger nears.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, which was a welcome realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to meet up at a close location. However, once Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel realistic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances where these individuals do show appreciation for each other feel much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound message about family or community, either. Rather, it's mostly delivering frights. Yet these are effective frights, and because the film gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result is a captivating and entertaining
