Generally speaking, I've had my fill of undead films. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems largely depleted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations turning out quite entertaining.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Growth
One of the film's strongest strengths lies in the superb rhythm. It kicks off with a striking initial scene where a calm family party gets suddenly interrupted when a vehicle plows into the guest area. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger emerges proceeding attacking the attendees. This intense moment is then succeeded by a look back, allowing us to see the family before the tragedy struck.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir truly gives the audience enough opportunity to get to know the primary characters prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a married mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured yet socially awkward, and who loves playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on Nes. This household patriarch is her dad, who runs a popular natural medicine company named Wani Waras, and he seems focused on just two things: his work and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is incredibly strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed with this household's issues along with their personal conflicts to the point I nearly overlooked I was watching a scary movie—something that could sound like a drawback, but in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film depicting us who each relative is, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This focus on clashing personalities enabled the audience to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat for this style which frequently presents characters just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to consume, thus it's a genuine surprise when things finally go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various household exchanges in fact evoke the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a Korean drama with slightly dark comedy before making a sudden turn toward shocking territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives sufficient time to settle into the setting before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Source
This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition originates in a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. Although we do learn a bit about its origins, I wish the movie had spent a little more time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a lethal potion which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the limited background, the impact this condition has on humans is absolutely repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's undead prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring decision, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear very realistic, and they're almost certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
More impressive than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some instances of questionable choices (as in typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like prey in headlights while danger nears.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord once individuals begin transforming to the undead, this proved a welcome authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for everything! trope frequently used in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still holding onto bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide via telephone to meet up at a close location. However, once Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation on her brother which has obviously 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 notion that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This makes those instances where these individuals express appreciation toward one another feel much more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound message about family or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're effective frights, and because the film gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable