Generally speaking, I've grown tired of undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category feels largely exhausted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for months. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.
Excellent Pacing and Character Growth
Among this movie's strongest strengths is its superb rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable opening sequence where a calm family party gets suddenly disrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger emerges proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then followed by a flashback, giving viewers to see this household before the tragedy occurred.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient time to get to know its main characters prior to the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—a clearly awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably led to a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch is Nes' father, who runs a well-known natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and who seems to care about just two aspects: his work and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves extremely tense.
Invested in the Drama
I became so engrossed with this household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot I was watching a scary movie—which might seem like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of its runtime depicting viewers who each family member is, plus the ways they add to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed me to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare feat for this style that often presents individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to consume, thus it's a genuine shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and various family interactions actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor prior to taking a sudden turn toward shocking ground. These early moments don't focus too heavily on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives sufficient opportunity to settle into the setting before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Source
The film additionally presents a fairly interesting reason regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Instead of a unintended lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease originates in a new sample of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. While some background is provided a bit about its origins, I wish the movie had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to creating a lethal elixir that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of background, the impact this condition has on people proves utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a bold choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also quite convincing, and are practically certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see some examples of dubious choices (as in any good undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to kick an undead in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like prey in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord when people begin transforming into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for everything! trope often seen in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes loves her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still holding onto resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to meet up at a nearby location. But when Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try to promote the notion that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals express appreciation for each other seem far more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep message about family or community, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up scares. But they're effective scares, and because the film gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result proves an engaging and entertaining
