For the most part, I'm over undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre seems largely depleted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for months. However, Netflix's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Growth
One of this movie's greatest assets is its excellent rhythm. It begins using a memorable initial scene where a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted by a van crashes right into the guest area. Out of the van, a very zombie-like stranger stumbles out and begins attacking the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe this household before the disaster occurred.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly allows the audience sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with its main personalities prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a ex best friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a rift between the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. This household head consists of Nes' father, the owner of a well-known natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and who seems to care about only two aspects: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is extremely strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so engrossed with this family's dynamics and their personal conflicts that I nearly overlooked this was a horror film—which might seem like a drawback, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of its runtime depicting us who each relative is, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This focus on clashing traits allowed me to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently introduces characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, disposable victims for an army of the undead to devour, thus it's a real surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and various household exchanges in fact evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring slightly dark humor before making an abrupt shift toward shocking territory. These early scenes aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives enough opportunity to settle into the setting before it gets upended.
Original Zombification Origin
The film additionally presents a quite interesting reason for the source of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition stems from a recent batch from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the movie had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a lethal elixir that appears to contain an extremely infectious virus. Despite the lack of background, the effect this condition has on people is absolutely disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's undead are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a bold choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear very realistic, and are almost guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive than the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of questionable decision-making (like any typical undead film), but generally, Nes and her family are resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available instead of standing still like a deer in headlights as death approaches.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, this proved a pleasantly realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes loves her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they decide via telephone to meet up at a nearby location. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and relatable because the film doesn't try to push the idea that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters do show gratitude for each other feel far more genuine.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep insight about family or community, either. Rather, it's mostly serving up frights. Yet these are effective frights, and since the film allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
