Generally speaking, I've grown tired of undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category feels largely exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Development
Among this movie's strongest assets is its superb pacing. It begins using a striking opening sequence where a calm family party gets suddenly disrupted by a van crashes right into the guest area. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger emerges and begins attacking the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to see the family prior to the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows the audience sufficient opportunity to get to know its main personalities prior to the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a former best friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable situation. This has understandably led to a rift among Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted but socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on Nes. The family head consists of Nes' father, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he appears focused on only two aspects: his work and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves extremely tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so invested in the family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts to the point I nearly forgot this was a scary movie—which might seem like a drawback, but in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a significant portion of its runtime depicting us who each relative is, and how they add to the general turmoil. This focus on conflicting traits enabled the audience to connect with the characters sufficiently to care about their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style which frequently presents characters just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine shock once events finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and various household exchanges in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy before taking an abrupt shift into shocking ground. These early scenes don't focus as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to settle into the setting before everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
This movie also offers a fairly interesting reason regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a new batch from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While we do learn a bit about how it started, I wish the film had spent additional focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion which seems to contain a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this condition produces on people is absolutely repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's undead are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a bold choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also quite realistic, and are practically guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
Even better than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of dubious decision-making (like any typical undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with the nearest heavy object is available rather than freezing like a deer in headlights while danger nears.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord when people begin transforming to the undead, which was a welcome authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters do show gratitude for each other feel far more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep insight regarding relatives or community, either. Rather, it's primarily serving up scares. Yet these are successful frights, and because the movie gives each character sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and entertaining
