Generally speaking, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category feels largely exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for months. However, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Development
One of this movie's strongest assets is its excellent rhythm. It kicks off with a memorable opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly interrupted by a vehicle plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is then followed by a look back, giving viewers to observe this household before the disaster occurred.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly allows the audience enough opportunity to become acquainted with its main characters before the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a former close friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has understandably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured yet socially awkward, and he enjoys gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. This household patriarch is Nes' father, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and who seems to care about just two things: his business and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is incredibly tense.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so invested with this family's dynamics and their personal conflicts that I almost overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could sound like a drawback, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of its runtime to showing us the identity of every family member is, plus the ways they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting personalities enabled me to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—a rare feat in a genre which frequently introduces characters just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine surprise once events finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and various family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy before taking an abrupt shift into shocking territory. These introductory scenes don't focus as much on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides enough opportunity to settle into the setting prior to it gets upended.
Unique Zombification Source
This movie also offers a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the cause for this infectious condition stems from a recent batch from Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the movie had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a lethal potion which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the lack of context, the impact this condition produces on people proves utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring decision, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear quite realistic, and they're practically certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
Even better compared to the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see some instances of dubious choices (like any any good undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to strike an undead in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available rather than freezing like prey in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict when people start turning into zombies, which was a pleasantly realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide via telephone to regroup at a close spot. But when Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been building over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This makes the moments where these individuals express appreciation for each other feel far more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message regarding relatives or society, either. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are successful scares, and because the film gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is a captivating and enjoyable
