Typically, I'm over apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre feels largely exhausted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Growth
Among the film's greatest strengths lies in the superb rhythm. It begins with a striking initial scene in which a calm family party gets suddenly interrupted by a vehicle plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic moment is immediately succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to observe this household prior to the tragedy struck.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough opportunity to get to know the primary personalities prior to the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother with a ex best friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward dynamic. This has predictably caused a rift between Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured but a bit inept socially, and who enjoys gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. The family head is her dad, the owner of a popular natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two aspects: his business and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so engrossed with this household's issues and their personal conflicts that I almost forgot this was a horror film—something that could sound like a drawback, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of the film depicting us who each relative is, plus the ways they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing personalities enabled the audience to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style that often introduces characters just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to devour, thus it's a real surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking an abrupt shift into "holy shit" ground. These introductory scenes don't focus too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to settle into the setting before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a quite interesting explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Instead of an accidental lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. Although some background is provided a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the film devoted a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to creating a lethal elixir which seems to include an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this affliction has on people proves absolutely disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a bold decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and are practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better than the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see a few instances of questionable decision-making (as in any good undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and sharp. They also don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument is available rather than freezing like a deer caught in lights as death approaches.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord when people start turning into zombies, which was a welcome 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 values her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains holding onto resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they decide via telephone to regroup at a close location. But when Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals do show gratitude toward one another feel far more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight about family or community, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up scares. Yet these are effective scares, and because the movie gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is an engaging and enjoyable
