Typically, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, this category feels largely exhausted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out quite entertaining.
Superb Pacing and Personal Growth
Among this movie's strongest strengths is its superb pacing. It kicks off with a striking opening sequence where a calm family party is violently interrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very zombie-like individual emerges proceeding attacking the attendees. This intense moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to see this household before the tragedy occurred.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly allows viewers enough time to get to know the primary characters before the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a former close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably led to a falling out among the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and he loves gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on Nes. This household head consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and who appears to care about only two aspects: his business and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed with this family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—something that could sound like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a significant portion of its runtime depicting us who each family member is, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed the audience to relate with the characters sufficiently to care about their fate—a rare feat in a genre that often presents characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to devour, thus it's a real surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a K-Drama with somewhat morbid humor prior to making an abrupt turn into "holy shit" ground. These early moments aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough time to settle into the setting before it gets upended.
Original Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing reason regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a new sample of Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the movie had spent a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to producing a deadly potion which seems to include an extremely infectious virus. Despite the limited context, the impact this condition has on people proves utterly disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's undead are quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a daring choice, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also very realistic, and are practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of dubious decision-making (as in typical undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and sharp. They also aren't afraid to kick an undead in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with the nearest heavy object they find rather than freezing like prey in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a welcome authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for everything! trope frequently used in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they decide over the phone to meet up at a close location. But when Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances where these individuals do show gratitude for each other seem much more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound message about family or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are successful scares, and since the movie allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves a captivating and entertaining
