Typically, I've had my fill of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre feels mostly exhausted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations and proved remarkably entertaining.
Impressive Rhythm and Personal Development
Among this movie's greatest strengths lies in the excellent pacing. It kicks off with a memorable opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly interrupted by a van crashes into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like individual stumbles out and begins assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to see the family prior to the disaster occurred.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough opportunity to become acquainted with its main characters prior to the chaos begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex best friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. This has predictably caused a falling out between the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to her. The family head consists of Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and who seems to care about only two things: his business and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so engrossed with this household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost overlooked this was a horror film—something that could sound like a negative, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every family member represents, and how they add to the general turmoil. This focus on conflicting traits allowed me to connect to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat for this style which frequently presents individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a real shock when things finally go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and the multiple family interactions in fact evoke the film Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor before making an abrupt shift toward "holy shit" ground. These early moments aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient time to settle into its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Source
The film additionally presents a quite interesting reason regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition stems from a new sample from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. Although we do learn a bit about how it started, I wish the film devoted a little more time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir that appears to contain an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the impact this affliction produces on humans proves utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also quite realistic, and they're practically certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
More impressive than the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see a few examples of questionable decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with whatever heavy object is available instead of standing still like prey caught in lights as death nears.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, this proved a welcome authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for everything! cliché frequently used in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains clinging to bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel authentic and relatable because the film doesn't try to promote the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments when these characters do show appreciation toward one another feel far more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep message regarding relatives or community, either. Instead, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're successful scares, and because the film allows every personality enough room to grow and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the result proves a captivating and entertaining
