For the most part, I'm over apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category feels largely exhausted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for months. But, the platform's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Growth
Among the film's strongest assets lies in the superb rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene in which a calm family gathering is violently disrupted when a van plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger emerges and begins assaulting the attendees. This intense moment is immediately succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to observe the family before the disaster occurred.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with its main characters before the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother whose former close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—an obviously awkward situation. Naturally, this has predictably led to a rift among Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and who loves playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to her. The family patriarch is Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on only two things: his business and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed in the household's issues and their personal conflicts that I nearly overlooked this was a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of the film to showing us the identity of every family member represents, plus the ways they add to the general turmoil. This focus on clashing traits allowed me to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment in a genre that often presents characters just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a genuine shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and various family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a Korean drama with slightly dark comedy prior to making a sudden shift toward shocking ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives enough opportunity to settle into its world before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a quite interesting reason for the source of the contagious transformation. Instead of an accidental lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the source of this contagious disease originates in a new batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. While some background is provided a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the film had spent a little more focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to producing a deadly elixir that appears to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the limited background, the impact this affliction has on people is absolutely repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite convincing, and are practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to 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 generally, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick an undead in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with the nearest heavy object they find instead of freezing like prey caught in lights while danger nears.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for everything! trope often seen in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they agree via telephone to meet up at a nearby location. But when Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable because the film doesn't try to push the notion that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This causes the moments where these individuals express appreciation for each other feel far more sincere.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep message about family or community, either. Instead, it's primarily delivering scares. But they're successful scares, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to develop and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the outcome proves a captivating and entertaining
