Typically, I've grown tired of undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre feels largely depleted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Development
One of the film's greatest assets is its excellent rhythm. It kicks off with a striking opening sequence in which a calm family party is violently interrupted when a van plows right into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger emerges proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately followed by a look back, giving viewers to observe the family before the tragedy struck.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient opportunity to get to know its main personalities before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former best friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has predictably led to a falling out among Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and he enjoys gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently been unfaithful to her. This household head consists of her dad, who runs a well-known natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and he seems focused on only two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so invested in the household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of the film to showing viewers the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they contribute to the general dysfunction. This focus on clashing personalities enabled me to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare feat in a genre which frequently presents individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to consume, thus it's a real surprise when things eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and various household exchanges in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a Korean drama with somewhat morbid humor before taking a sudden shift into "holy shit" territory. These early moments don't focus as much on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still provides sufficient time to settle into its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Source
The film also offers a fairly interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the cause of this infectious condition stems from a new sample of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While we do learn a bit about how it started, I wish the movie had spent a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited background, the effect this affliction produces on humans proves utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a bold choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear quite convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of dubious decision-making (like any typical zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick an undead in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with whatever heavy object they find instead of standing still like a deer in headlights as death approaches.
Realistic Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord once individuals start turning to the undead, this proved a welcome authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they agree via telephone to regroup at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes is not flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—seem realistic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to push the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This causes those instances when these characters do show appreciation toward one another seem much more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep insight about family or society, as well. Instead, it's mostly serving up frights. Yet these are effective frights, and since the movie gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result proves a captivating and enjoyable
