For the most part, I've had my fill of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre feels mostly exhausted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for months. However, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out quite entertaining.
Impressive Rhythm and Personal Development
Among this movie's greatest assets lies in the excellent rhythm. It begins with a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly interrupted when a vehicle plows into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like stranger emerges and begins assaulting the attendees. This intense scene is then followed by a look back, giving viewers to observe this household before the disaster occurred.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir truly allows viewers enough time to get to know the primary personalities prior to the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and who loves gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on Nes. This household head consists of Nes' father, who runs a well-known natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so invested with this household's issues and their personal conflicts that I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could sound like a drawback, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a significant portion of its runtime to showing viewers who each family member represents, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing personalities enabled the audience to relate to the personalities enough to care about their fate—a rare feat 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 an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine shock once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor before taking a sudden turn toward "holy shit" territory. These introductory moments don't focus too heavily on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough time to immerse in its world before it gets upended.
Unique Zombification Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source for this contagious disease stems from a recent sample of Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. While we do learn something regarding how it started, I wish the film devoted a little more time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of context, the effect this affliction produces on people is absolutely repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a daring choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also very convincing, and they're practically certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
Even better than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of dubious decision-making (like any any good zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with the nearest heavy object they find instead of standing still like prey caught in lights as death nears.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, which was a pleasantly realistic 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 end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby location. But when Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel authentic and understandable because the film doesn't try to promote the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters do show appreciation toward one another feel far more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message about family or society, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are effective frights, and since the movie allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves a captivating and enjoyable
