Typically, I'm over undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre seems largely depleted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated and proved quite enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Growth
One of the film's strongest strengths is its superb rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable opening sequence where a calm family party is violently interrupted by a vehicle plows into the seating section. Out of the van, a very zombie-like individual emerges and begins assaulting the attendees. This intense scene is then followed by a look back, allowing us to observe this household before the tragedy struck.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with its main personalities before the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former best friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has predictably caused a rift among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and who enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household head consists of her dad, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two aspects: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is incredibly strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so invested in the household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost overlooked this was a horror film—something that could sound like a negative, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime to showing viewers who each family member represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing personalities enabled the audience to connect with the characters enough to care about their outcome—a rare feat for this style that often introduces individuals just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to consume, so it's a genuine shock when things finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a K-Drama with somewhat morbid humor before making an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides enough time to settle into the setting prior to everything gets upended.
Original Infection Source
The film also offers a quite intriguing reason regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the cause for this infectious condition stems from a new sample from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, I wish the movie had spent a little more focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion that appears to include an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the limited background, the impact this affliction has on people proves absolutely repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring choice, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear quite convincing, and are almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive than the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of dubious choices (as in any good undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and sharp. They also aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with the nearest heavy object they find rather than standing still like a deer caught in lights as death approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict when people begin transforming into zombies, which was a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "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 apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close spot. However, once Bang reveals 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 perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters do show gratitude toward one another seem far more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message regarding relatives or community, as well. Instead, it's mostly delivering scares. Yet these are effective frights, and since the film gives each character sufficient space to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
