Typically, I've had my fill of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems largely exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations and proved quite entertaining.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Growth
One of the film's greatest assets lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene where a peaceful family party is violently interrupted by a van plows into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to observe the family before the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives the audience sufficient opportunity to get to know the primary characters prior to the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex best friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—a clearly awkward dynamic. This has predictably caused a rift among the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and he loves playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on Nes. This household patriarch is her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he appears focused on just two things: his business and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so invested with this family's dynamics and their personal conflicts that I almost overlooked this was a horror film—something that could sound like a drawback, but in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of its runtime depicting viewers who each family member is, plus the ways they add to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting personalities enabled the audience to relate to the personalities enough to care about their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style that often introduces characters just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of the undead to consume, so it's a genuine surprise once events finally go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid humor prior to making a sudden turn toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory moments don't focus too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides enough time to immerse in its world prior to everything gets upended.
Unique Zombification Origin
This movie additionally presents a quite intriguing reason regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause for this infectious condition stems from a new batch from Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent a little more focus on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a lethal potion which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this condition produces on people proves utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also very realistic, and are practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better than the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see some instances of questionable choices (like any typical undead film), but generally, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and sharp. They also don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with whatever heavy object they find rather than standing still like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon 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's still clinging to resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a close location. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—seem authentic and relatable because the film doesn't try to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments where these individuals express appreciation for each other feel far more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message about family or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're successful frights, and since the film gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is a captivating and entertaining
