Typically, I'm over apocalyptic horror. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre seems mostly exhausted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. However, the platform's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out quite enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Personal Growth
Among this movie's greatest strengths lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off using a striking initial scene where a calm family gathering is violently interrupted when a van plows into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking individual emerges and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense scene is then followed by a look back, giving viewers to observe this household prior to the disaster occurred.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured but a bit inept socially, and he enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on Nes. The family patriarch consists of Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on only two things: his work and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed with this household's issues and their personal conflicts that I almost overlooked this was a scary movie—which might sound like a drawback, but in the end worked well. The Elixir spends a significant amount of the film to showing us who each family member is, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled the audience to relate to the personalities enough to care about their outcome—a rare feat in a genre which frequently presents characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to devour, thus it's a genuine shock once events eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and the multiple family interactions actually evoke the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring slightly dark comedy before taking a sudden turn toward shocking ground. These introductory moments don't focus as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough time to settle into the setting prior to it gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Source
The film additionally presents a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source for this contagious disease originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted a little more time on how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a deadly potion which seems to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the limited background, the effect this affliction has on humans proves utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear quite convincing, and are almost guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
More impressive compared to the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, we see some examples of questionable choices (like any any good undead film), however generally, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument is available rather than standing still like a deer in headlights as death approaches.
Realistic Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord when people start turning to the undead, which was a welcome authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close spot. But when Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been building for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This causes the moments when these characters express gratitude toward one another seem far more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound insight about family or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up scares. Yet these are successful frights, and because the movie allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result proves a captivating and entertaining
