Generally speaking, I'm over undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category feels largely depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. However, the platform's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Character Growth
One of this movie's strongest assets is its superb rhythm. It kicks off using a striking initial scene where a calm family gathering gets suddenly interrupted by a van plows right into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking stranger emerges and begins assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is then followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe the family prior to the tragedy occurred.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient opportunity to get to know the primary personalities before the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has predictably led to a rift among the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and who loves playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. The family head consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and he seems focused on just two things: his business and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves extremely tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a negative, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of the film depicting viewers the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed me to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment in a genre that often presents individuals just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, disposable victims for an army of the undead to consume, so it's a genuine surprise once events finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and the multiple household exchanges in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking an abrupt shift toward shocking territory. These early scenes aren't centered too heavily on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives sufficient opportunity to settle into its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Origin
This movie also offers a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the source of this contagious disease originates in a new sample of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although some background is provided something regarding how it started, I wish the movie devoted additional focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir that appears to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the limited background, the effect this condition produces on people is absolutely repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a daring decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and are practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of dubious choices (as in any good undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick an undead in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument is available rather than standing still like prey caught in lights while danger nears.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a welcome realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for everything! trope frequently used in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still clinging to resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a close spot. However, once Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been building over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—seem authentic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances where these individuals do show appreciation for each other feel far more sincere.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound insight regarding relatives or society, either. Rather, it's mostly serving up frights. But they're successful scares, and because the film gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
