Typically, I'm over undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, this category feels mostly exhausted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for months. However, the platform's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated and proved quite entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Growth
One of this movie's greatest assets lies in the superb rhythm. It begins with a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly interrupted by a vehicle crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like individual emerges and begins attacking the attendees. This dramatic scene is immediately followed by a look back, giving viewers to see the family prior to the disaster struck.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives the audience sufficient time to become acquainted with its main characters prior to the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a ex close friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has predictably led to a falling out among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and he enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household patriarch is Nes' father, the owner of a popular natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and he appears focused on just two aspects: his business and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is extremely strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot I was watching a horror film—something that could sound like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film to showing us the identity of every relative represents, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits allowed me to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre which frequently introduces individuals only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to consume, so it's a real shock once events eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges in fact evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor prior to making a sudden turn into "holy shit" territory. These introductory scenes aren't centered too heavily on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives sufficient time to immerse in its world prior to it gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Source
This movie also offers a quite interesting reason for the source of the contagious transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. While we do learn something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent additional focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir which seems to include an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this condition has on people proves utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's undead prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear quite convincing, and are practically certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
More impressive than the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of questionable choices (like any any good undead film), but 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, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with whatever heavy object is available instead of standing still like a deer caught in lights as death nears.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord when people begin transforming to the undead, which was a welcome realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they agree via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been building for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem authentic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the idea that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This makes the moments where these individuals express gratitude for each other feel much more sincere.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep message about family or community, as well. Instead, it's mostly serving up scares. Yet these are successful frights, and since the movie allows every personality enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the outcome is an engaging and entertaining
