Generally speaking, I've had my fill of zombie movies. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre feels mostly exhausted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Personal Development
Among this movie's strongest assets lies in the excellent rhythm. It kicks off with a striking opening sequence in which a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly interrupted by a van plows right into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking stranger stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This dramatic scene is immediately followed by a flashback, allowing us to see the family prior to the tragedy struck.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary personalities prior to the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a former best friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. This has understandably led to a falling out among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household head is Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on only two aspects: his work and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly tense.
Invested in the Drama
I became so invested with this family's dynamics and their personal conflicts to the point I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a significant portion of its runtime to showing viewers the identity of every family member represents, and how they add to the general turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting personalities enabled me to relate with the characters enough to care about their outcome—an uncommon feat in a genre which frequently introduces characters just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine shock once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and various household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring slightly dark comedy prior to making an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" territory. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides sufficient time to immerse in its world before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
The film additionally presents a quite intriguing reason regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Instead of an accidental lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the source of this contagious disease stems from a recent sample from Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. While we do learn something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent additional time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion which seems to contain a highly contagious virus. Despite the limited background, the effect this affliction produces on humans proves utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also very convincing, and are almost guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive compared to the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see a few instances of dubious choices (like any typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family are inventive and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to kick an undead in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever heavy object is available instead of standing still like a deer in headlights as death nears.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord when people begin transforming to the undead, this proved a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for everything! trope frequently used in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes loves her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains clinging to bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they agree via telephone to meet up at a nearby location. But when Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This causes those instances where these individuals do show appreciation for each other feel far more sincere.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound message regarding relatives or society, either. Instead, it's primarily delivering scares. Yet these are effective frights, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
