For the most part, I'm over zombie movies. While favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, this category seems mostly exhausted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, Netflix's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out quite enjoyable.
Excellent Pacing and Personal Development
One of this movie's greatest assets is its superb pacing. It begins using a memorable opening sequence in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly disrupted when a vehicle plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding attacking the partygoers. This intense scene is immediately succeeded by a look back, allowing us to see this household before the disaster occurred.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough opportunity to become acquainted with its main characters prior to the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother with a ex close friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—a clearly awkward situation. Naturally, this has understandably led to a falling out among the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and he enjoys gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on her. The family patriarch is her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on only two aspects: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so invested in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a negative, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a significant amount of the film to showing viewers the identity of every family member represents, and how they add to the general turmoil. This focus on conflicting traits enabled me to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment for this style that often introduces characters only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for an army of the undead to consume, so it's a real shock when things finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges in fact evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid humor before taking an abrupt shift into "holy shit" territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives enough time to immerse in its world before everything gets upended.
Original Infection Origin
The film also offers a quite interesting reason regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the cause of this infectious condition stems from a new sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film devoted a little more time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to creating a deadly elixir that appears to contain a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of context, the effect this affliction has on humans proves absolutely repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a bold choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and are almost guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
More impressive than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see a few instances of dubious choices (like any typical undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and sharp. They also don't hesitate to strike an undead in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people start turning into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for everything! cliché frequently used in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they decide via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals express appreciation toward one another feel much more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep message about family or community, either. Rather, it's mostly delivering scares. But they're effective frights, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and entertaining
