Typically, I've had my fill of undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems mostly exhausted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, Netflix's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations and proved remarkably entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Character Growth
Among this movie's strongest assets lies in the excellent rhythm. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence in which a peaceful family party is violently interrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like individual emerges and begins assaulting the attendees. This intense scene is then succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to see the family prior to the disaster occurred.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough time to get to know the primary characters before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. This has predictably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and who loves playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. This household head consists of her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two aspects: his business and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so invested with this household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost overlooked I was watching a scary movie—which might sound like a drawback, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of its runtime to showing us the identity of every family member represents, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting personalities allowed me to relate with the characters enough to care about their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style which frequently presents individuals only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to consume, so it's a real surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges in fact evoke the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy before making a sudden shift into shocking ground. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives sufficient opportunity to settle into its world before it gets upended.
Unique Infection Source
The film also offers a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading transformation. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the cause for this contagious disease stems from a new sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted a little more focus on how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of holistic medicine to creating a deadly elixir which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the limited background, the impact this affliction produces on people is absolutely disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a daring choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear quite realistic, and are practically guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see some examples of dubious choices (as in any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and sharp. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument they find rather than standing still like a deer in headlights while danger nears.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a welcome authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still clinging to bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they decide over the phone to meet up at a close spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been building over time. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel authentic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals express appreciation for each other feel much more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound message about family or society, either. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. Yet these are successful frights, and since the movie gives each character sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is an engaging and entertaining
