Typically, I've grown tired of zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category seems mostly depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations turning out quite enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Growth
Among this movie's greatest assets lies in the superb rhythm. It begins with a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family party is violently interrupted when a van plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like individual emerges proceeding attacking the partygoers. This intense scene is immediately followed by a look back, giving viewers to see the family before the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir truly allows viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former best friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably led to a rift between the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and he enjoys gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. The family patriarch consists of her dad, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who appears to care about only two things: his business and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely tense.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked this was a horror film—which might seem like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of the film depicting viewers the identity of every family member represents, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities allowed the audience to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style that often introduces characters just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, disposable victims for an army of zombies to consume, thus it's a real surprise when things finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy prior to taking an abrupt turn into shocking ground. These introductory moments don't focus as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives enough opportunity to immerse in its world prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Source
The film additionally presents a fairly interesting reason regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Instead of a unintended lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the source for this contagious disease originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. While some background is provided a bit about its origins, I wish the film had spent a little more focus on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to include a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the limited context, the impact this affliction produces on humans is utterly repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a daring decision, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also quite convincing, and they're practically certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of questionable decision-making (as in typical undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to kick an undead in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with the nearest heavy object they find rather than standing still like a deer in headlights as death nears.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for everything! cliché often seen in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains holding onto resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they agree over the phone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals do show gratitude toward one another feel far more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound insight regarding relatives or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up scares. But they're successful scares, and since the film gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
