Typically, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. While favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre seems largely exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for some time. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Pacing and Personal Growth
Among the film's greatest assets is its superb rhythm. It kicks off using a striking initial scene where a peaceful family party gets suddenly disrupted by a vehicle crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger emerges proceeding assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is immediately followed by a flashback, allowing us to see the family before the tragedy struck.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough time to get to know the primary personalities prior to the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose former best friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably caused a rift among the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and who enjoys playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently been unfaithful to her. The family head consists of Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he appears to care about just two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so invested with this family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked this was a scary movie—which might sound like a negative, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of its runtime depicting viewers who each relative is, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled the audience to connect with the characters sufficiently to care about their fate—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre that often introduces characters just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to devour, thus it's a genuine surprise when things finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and various family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy prior to making an abrupt turn toward shocking ground. These introductory moments don't focus too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives enough opportunity to immerse in its world before it gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
The film also offers a quite intriguing reason regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a new sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. While we do learn a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the movie devoted additional focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to include a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the limited background, the effect this condition has on humans proves absolutely disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear very convincing, and are almost guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
Even better than the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few examples of dubious decision-making (as in typical undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever heavy object they find rather than freezing like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning to the undead, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for everything! cliché often seen in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they decide over the phone to meet up at a close location. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and understandable because the film doesn't try to promote the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances when these characters do show gratitude for each other feel much more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep insight regarding relatives or society, either. Instead, it's mostly serving up scares. But they're successful frights, and since the film gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is an engaging and entertaining
