Generally speaking, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category feels largely depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Growth
One of this movie's strongest strengths is its excellent pacing. It begins with a memorable initial scene in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly interrupted by a vehicle plows right into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking individual stumbles out and begins assaulting the attendees. This intense scene is immediately succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to see this household before the tragedy struck.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a former best friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—a clearly awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably led to a rift among Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and who enjoys playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. This household patriarch is Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and who appears to care about just two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves extremely strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so invested with this household's issues along with their personal conflicts that I almost forgot I was watching a scary movie—something that could seem like a negative, but in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film depicting viewers who each family member represents, plus the ways they add to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled me to connect to the personalities enough to care about their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre that often introduces characters just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine shock when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and various family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring slightly dark comedy prior to making a sudden shift into shocking ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough time to immerse in the setting prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Source
The film additionally presents a fairly intriguing reason regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition stems from a recent sample of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding how it started, I wish the film devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the lack of context, the effect this affliction produces on humans proves utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and they're almost guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better compared to the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Of course, we see a few examples of dubious choices (as in typical undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives are inventive and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object they find instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still holding onto bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they agree via telephone to meet up at a close spot. But when Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals express gratitude for each other feel far more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound message about family or community, either. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are successful scares, and because the movie gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves a captivating and entertaining
