Typically, I've had my fill of zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems mostly exhausted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated and proved remarkably entertaining.
Impressive Pacing and Personal Growth
Among the film's strongest assets is its excellent rhythm. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence where a calm family party is violently disrupted by a van plows right into the guest area. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to observe the family prior to the disaster struck.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly gives viewers sufficient time to get to know the primary personalities prior to the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—a clearly awkward situation. This has predictably caused a rift among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and he loves gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on her. The family head is her dad, who runs a popular natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and who seems to care about just two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so engrossed in the household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of the film depicting viewers who each relative represents, plus the ways they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits allowed the audience to relate with the characters enough to care about their outcome—an uncommon feat in a genre which frequently presents characters just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, thus it's a real surprise when things eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama featuring slightly dark comedy before taking an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" territory. These introductory moments don't focus too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides sufficient opportunity to immerse in its world before everything gets upended.
Original Zombification Source
The film also offers a fairly interesting reason regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Instead of an accidental lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the cause for this contagious disease stems from a recent batch from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. Although some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the film had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to producing a lethal potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this condition produces on people proves utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a bold choice, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also very convincing, and are practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better than the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are some instances of dubious decision-making (as in typical undead film), but generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to kick an undead in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument is available rather than freezing like prey caught in lights as death approaches.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord when people start turning into zombies, which was a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they decide over the phone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals do show gratitude for each other seem much more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound insight about family or society, either. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're successful frights, and because the film allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome is an engaging and enjoyable
