Generally speaking, I've grown tired of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category feels largely exhausted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out quite enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Growth
One of the film's strongest strengths is its excellent rhythm. It begins using a striking initial scene where a calm family party is violently interrupted when a vehicle plows into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual emerges and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense scene is then succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe this household prior to the tragedy struck.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with its main personalities before the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously awkward dynamic. This has understandably led to a rift between the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and who loves gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. This household patriarch is her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on just two aspects: his work and his wife to Nes' former 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 personal conflicts that I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of the film depicting viewers the identity of every relative represents, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting personalities allowed the audience to connect to the personalities sufficiently to care about their fate—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently introduces individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to devour, so it's a genuine shock once events eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and various household exchanges in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama with slightly dark comedy before making a sudden turn toward "holy shit" ground. These early moments don't focus as much on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still provides sufficient opportunity to settle into the setting before it gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Origin
The film also offers a fairly intriguing reason regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Instead of a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the cause for this infectious condition originates in a recent sample of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent additional focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a deadly potion that appears to contain a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited background, the effect this affliction has on humans is absolutely disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of dubious decision-making (as in typical undead film), but generally, Nes and her family are resourceful and sharp. They also don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available rather than standing still like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict when people begin transforming to the undead, which was a pleasantly authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for everything! trope frequently used in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still clinging to resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they decide via telephone to regroup at a close location. However, once Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to push the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals do show appreciation toward one another seem much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep message regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're successful scares, and because the movie gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves a captivating and entertaining
