For the most part, I'm over undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems mostly depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. But, the platform's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out remarkably entertaining.
Superb Pacing and Character Development
Among the film's strongest assets lies in the superb rhythm. It kicks off using a striking initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted by a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense moment is immediately succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to see this household prior to the tragedy struck.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough opportunity to get to know the primary personalities before the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably led to a rift between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured but a bit inept socially, and who loves gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on Nes. The family patriarch is Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who seems to care about only two things: his business and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves extremely tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so engrossed with this family's dynamics and their personal conflicts that I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a negative, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of the film to showing viewers who each relative is, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing personalities allowed the audience to connect with the characters sufficiently to care about their fate—an uncommon accomplishment for this style which frequently introduces individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and various family interactions in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a Korean drama with slightly dark comedy before taking an abrupt shift into shocking territory. These introductory scenes aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides sufficient opportunity to settle into the setting prior to everything gets upended.
Original Zombification Source
This movie additionally presents a quite interesting explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a new sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. While some background is provided a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the film devoted additional focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir that appears to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the lack of background, the effect this affliction produces on humans proves utterly repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's undead are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and are almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive than the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, we see a few examples of dubious choices (as in typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her family are resourceful and sharp. They also don't hesitate to kick an undead in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord once individuals start turning to the undead, which was a pleasantly authentic 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 frequently used in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still clinging to bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they decide over the phone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and understandable because the film doesn't try to promote the notion that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This makes the moments when these characters express appreciation for each other seem far more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep insight about family or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are effective scares, and since the film gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome is a captivating and enjoyable
