Typically, I've grown tired of zombie movies. While favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category seems largely depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out quite enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Growth
One of the film's greatest strengths is its excellent pacing. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene where a peaceful family party gets suddenly interrupted by a van plows into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking stranger emerges and begins attacking the attendees. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a look back, allowing us to see this household before the disaster struck.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient opportunity to get to know the primary personalities before the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose ex close friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—a clearly awkward dynamic. This has understandably caused a rift between Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured but a bit inept socially, and he loves playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. This household patriarch is Nes' father, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he seems to care about just two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed with this family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama that I almost overlooked this was a horror film—which might seem like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a significant portion of the film to showing us who each family member represents, and how they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits enabled me to connect to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment in a genre that often presents individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a real shock once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and the multiple household exchanges in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring slightly dark comedy before taking a sudden turn into shocking ground. These introductory moments aren't centered too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient time to immerse in its world prior to it gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Source
The film also offers a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition originates in a new batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion that appears to contain a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of context, the effect this condition has on people is utterly disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a bold choice, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also very realistic, and they're almost certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see a few examples of dubious decision-making (like any any good undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and sharp. They also don't hesitate to strike an undead in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument they find rather than freezing like a deer in headlights as death nears.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict when people begin transforming into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes loves her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still holding onto resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they decide over the phone to regroup at a close spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes is not flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—seem authentic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to push the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes those instances when these characters express appreciation toward one another seem far more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep insight about family or society, either. Instead, it's mostly serving up scares. Yet these are successful frights, and since the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
