Typically, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre seems mostly depleted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. However, the platform's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations and proved quite enjoyable.
Impressive Pacing and Character Growth
One of this movie's greatest assets lies in the excellent rhythm. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family party gets suddenly disrupted by a vehicle plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking individual emerges proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense scene is immediately followed by a flashback, allowing us to see this household prior to the disaster struck.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough opportunity to get to know the primary characters prior to the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a married mother with a ex best friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—a clearly awkward situation. This has understandably led to a rift between the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on her. The family patriarch consists of Nes' father, who runs a well-known natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is extremely tense.
Invested in the Drama
I became so invested in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked this was a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of the film depicting viewers the identity of every family member represents, and how they contribute to the general turmoil. 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 only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, disposable victims for an army of zombies to consume, thus it's a real surprise once events finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and various household exchanges in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama with slightly dark humor before taking an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" territory. These introductory scenes aren't centered too heavily on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient opportunity to immerse in its world before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Origin
The film additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a new batch from Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding how it started, I wish the movie devoted additional time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to creating a lethal potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Despite the limited context, the effect this affliction produces on humans is utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a bold choice, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and they're practically guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
More impressive than the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of dubious decision-making (as in typical undead film), but generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument is available rather than freezing like prey in headlights while danger nears.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, this proved a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still holding onto resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to meet up at a nearby location. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem authentic and relatable because the film doesn't try to push the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals express gratitude for each other feel much more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep insight regarding relatives or society, either. Instead, it's mostly serving up frights. Yet these are effective frights, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
