For the most part, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre seems mostly depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations turning out remarkably entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Character Growth
Among the film's greatest assets lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence where a calm family party gets suddenly interrupted by a vehicle crashes into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking stranger stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This dramatic moment is then succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to see the family before the tragedy occurred.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir truly gives viewers sufficient time to get to know the primary personalities before the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has understandably led to a rift between the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and who enjoys gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. The family patriarch is Nes' father, the owner of a well-known natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on only two things: his work and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is extremely strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so invested in the family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts to the point I almost overlooked this was a scary movie—something that could seem like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime to showing viewers the identity of every family member represents, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting personalities enabled the audience to connect with the characters enough to care about their outcome—a rare feat in a genre that often introduces individuals only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of the undead to devour, so it's a genuine shock when things finally go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and the multiple family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a story that masquerades as a Korean drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking an abrupt turn into shocking territory. These early moments aren't centered too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives sufficient time to settle into the setting before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
The film additionally presents a quite interesting reason regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the source for this contagious disease stems from a new batch from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While some background is provided a bit about how it started, I wish the movie devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the lack of background, the effect this affliction has on people is absolutely repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's undead are fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a bold decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear quite realistic, and they're almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see some instances of questionable choices (like any any good zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and sharp. They also don't hesitate to strike an undead in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with whatever heavy object they find instead of standing still like a deer caught in lights while danger nears.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, which was a welcome realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they agree over the phone to meet up at a close location. However, once Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to push the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments where these individuals do show appreciation for each other seem much more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound insight about family or society, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up frights. But they're effective frights, and since the movie gives each character enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result is an engaging and enjoyable
