For the most part, I've had my fill of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre feels largely depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Personal Development
One of the film's greatest assets lies in the superb rhythm. It begins using a striking initial scene in which a peaceful family party is violently interrupted when a vehicle plows right into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like individual emerges proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense moment is then followed by a look back, giving viewers to observe this household prior to the tragedy occurred.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient time to get to know its main characters before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably caused a falling out between the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who enjoys playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. The family patriarch consists of Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on only two aspects: his business and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is extremely strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so engrossed with this household's issues and their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a negative, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of its runtime depicting viewers who each family member is, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing traits enabled the audience to relate with the characters enough to care about their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style which frequently introduces characters just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and various family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy before making an abrupt turn into "holy shit" territory. These introductory moments aren't centered too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides enough opportunity to immerse in its world before it gets upended.
Unique Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting reason regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Instead of an accidental lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the cause of this infectious condition stems from a new batch from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film devoted additional time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to producing a deadly potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this condition produces on people proves absolutely disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a daring decision, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and they're practically certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few examples of dubious choices (as in any good zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with the nearest heavy object they find instead of standing still like prey in headlights as death approaches.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord when people begin transforming to the undead, which was a welcome authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes loves her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains clinging to resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they agree via telephone to meet up at a close location. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to push the notion that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This causes the moments where these individuals express appreciation toward one another feel much more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep message about family or community, either. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. Yet these are successful frights, and because the movie allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result is a captivating and entertaining
