Generally speaking, I've had my fill of zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category feels largely depleted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for months. However, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations and proved quite enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Personal Growth
Among this movie's strongest assets is its superb rhythm. It kicks off using a striking initial scene where a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted by a van crashes into the guest area. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger emerges and begins assaulting the attendees. This intense scene is then followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe this household before the tragedy struck.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly gives viewers enough time to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a ex best friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—a clearly awkward situation. This has predictably led to a falling out between the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured yet socially awkward, and he enjoys gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on her. This household head is her dad, who runs a popular natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and he seems to care about just two aspects: his business and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves extremely strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so invested in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama that I almost forgot this was a horror film—which might seem like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a significant amount of its runtime to showing us the identity of every relative is, and how they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled me to connect to the personalities enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment for this style that often presents individuals just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to devour, so it's a genuine shock once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and the multiple family interactions actually evoke the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring slightly dark comedy before making a sudden shift toward "holy shit" ground. These early moments aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient opportunity to immerse in the setting before it gets upended.
Unique Zombification Source
This movie additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a new sample of Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. While some background is provided a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the film devoted a little more focus on how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a deadly elixir that appears to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the lack of background, the effect this affliction produces on people is absolutely repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear quite realistic, and are practically guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see some instances of dubious decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to kick an undead in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with whatever heavy object they find rather than freezing like prey caught in lights as death nears.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord once individuals start turning to the undead, this proved a pleasantly realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still holding onto bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to meet up at a close spot. However, once Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been building for years. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters express appreciation toward one another feel much more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep message about family or community, either. Rather, it's primarily serving up scares. Yet these are effective frights, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is an engaging and enjoyable
