For the most part, I've grown tired of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were 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 remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Pacing and Personal Growth
Among the film's greatest strengths lies in the excellent pacing. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence in which a calm family party is violently interrupted by a vehicle plows into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like individual emerges and begins assaulting the attendees. This intense scene is then succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to see the family before the disaster occurred.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough opportunity to get to know the primary characters before the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a married mother with a ex best friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably led to a rift among Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and who loves playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. The family head consists of her dad, the owner of a popular natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and he seems to care about only two aspects: his work and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed with this household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot this was a horror film—which might sound like a negative, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime to showing viewers who each family member is, plus the ways they add to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing personalities enabled the audience to connect to the personalities sufficiently to care about their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently presents individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a real surprise when things eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and various family interactions actually evoke the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama with slightly dark comedy before taking an abrupt turn toward shocking territory. These early moments aren't centered too heavily on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient time to settle into its world before it gets upended.
Unique Infection Source
The film also offers a fairly interesting reason for the source of the contagious zombification. Instead of a unintended lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the source for this contagious disease stems from a recent sample of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, I wish the film devoted additional time on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to creating a lethal potion which seems to include an extremely infectious virus. Despite the limited background, the effect this affliction produces on humans is absolutely repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's undead are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also very convincing, and they're almost guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better than the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are a few examples of questionable choices (as in any good undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like a deer in headlights as death approaches.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord once individuals start turning into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains holding onto bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby location. But when Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and understandable since the movie 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 much more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep message about family or community, as well. Instead, it's mostly delivering frights. But they're effective scares, and because the movie allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
