Generally speaking, I've grown tired of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre seems largely depleted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for some time. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated turning out quite entertaining.
Impressive Pacing and Character Growth
Among this movie's greatest assets is its superb pacing. It begins with a striking initial scene where a peaceful family party is violently disrupted when a van plows into the guest area. Out of the van, a very zombie-like individual stumbles out and begins attacking the partygoers. This dramatic moment is then followed by a flashback, allowing us to observe this household prior to the tragedy struck.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir truly gives viewers enough time to get to know its main characters prior to the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a former close friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—a clearly awkward dynamic. This has understandably led to a falling out among the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who loves gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. This household head consists of her dad, who runs a popular natural medicine company named Wani Waras, and who appears to care about only two things: his work and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves extremely tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so invested in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a drawback, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a significant portion of its runtime to showing viewers the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they add to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled the audience to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat for this style that often introduces characters only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to consume, so it's a real shock when things eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring slightly dark humor prior to taking an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" territory. These introductory scenes aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still gives sufficient opportunity to settle into its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
This movie also offers a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition stems from a recent sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. Although some background is provided a bit about its origins, I wish the film had spent a little more time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to creating a deadly elixir which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Despite the lack of context, the effect this affliction has on people proves utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also quite convincing, and are practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
Even better than the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of questionable choices (as in typical undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and sharp. They also don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with whatever heavy object they find instead of standing still like prey in headlights as death nears.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a pleasantly realistic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for everything! trope often seen in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they agree via telephone to regroup at a close spot. But when Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been building over time. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to promote the notion that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This causes those instances where these individuals express appreciation for each other feel far more genuine.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message about family or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up scares. Yet these are successful scares, and since the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves a captivating and enjoyable
