Typically, I've grown tired of zombie movies. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre feels largely depleted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for months. However, Netflix's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out remarkably entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Character Growth
Among the film's greatest assets lies in the excellent rhythm. It begins using a striking initial scene in which a peaceful family party gets suddenly interrupted by a vehicle plows right into the guest area. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger emerges and begins attacking the partygoers. This dramatic moment is immediately succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to see this household prior to the tragedy struck.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows the audience enough opportunity to get to know its main characters prior to the carnage begins. There's Nes, a married mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. Naturally, this has understandably caused a rift among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he enjoys gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. The family head consists of her dad, the owner of a popular natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and who seems to care about just two things: his business and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so invested with this family's dynamics and their personal conflicts to the point I almost overlooked I was watching a scary movie—something that could seem like a negative, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of the film depicting viewers the identity of every family member is, and how they add to the general turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits enabled the audience to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment in a genre that often introduces characters just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to devour, so it's a genuine surprise when things eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a Korean drama with somewhat morbid comedy before taking an abrupt shift toward "holy shit" ground. These early moments aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives enough opportunity to settle into its world before it gets upended.
Unique Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the source for this contagious disease stems from a new batch from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. While we do learn something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the movie had spent a little more time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to producing a lethal potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the limited context, the impact this condition produces on people proves absolutely repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also very convincing, and they're almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some examples of questionable decision-making (like any any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with whatever heavy object is available instead of freezing like prey in headlights while danger nears.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people start turning to the undead, which was a pleasantly authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon 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, but it's also clear she's still clinging to resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they decide via telephone to regroup at a close spot. But when Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been building for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try to push the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments when these characters express appreciation for each other feel far more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound insight about family or society, as well. Rather, it's mostly delivering frights. Yet these are effective scares, and because the movie gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome is a captivating and enjoyable
