Generally speaking, I'm over undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category feels mostly exhausted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for months. However, Netflix's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Pacing and Character Development
One of this movie's greatest assets lies in the excellent rhythm. It kicks off with a memorable opening sequence in which a peaceful family party gets suddenly interrupted when a vehicle plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking stranger stumbles out and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense scene is immediately followed by a flashback, allowing us to see this household prior to the tragedy struck.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough time to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother with a former close friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably led to a falling out among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who enjoys playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. The family head consists of Nes' father, who runs a popular natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on only two things: his work and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so invested with this family's dynamics and their personal conflicts that I almost forgot I was watching a scary movie—something that could seem like a negative, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a significant amount of the film to showing viewers the identity of every family member is, and how they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled me to relate with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat for this style which frequently presents individuals just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to consume, thus it's a genuine surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a Korean drama with slightly dark comedy prior to making a sudden turn into shocking ground. These early scenes aren't centered too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides sufficient time to immerse in its world prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Source
This movie also offers a quite interesting reason for the source of the contagious zombification. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the source for this infectious condition originates in a recent sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. While we do learn a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a deadly elixir which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this affliction has on people proves absolutely disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's undead prove fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring decision, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very realistic, and are almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see some examples of questionable decision-making (as in any good undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives are inventive and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to kick an undead in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord once individuals start turning to the undead, this proved a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for everything! trope frequently used in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains holding onto resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals express gratitude toward one another feel far more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep insight about family or society, either. Rather, it's mostly delivering frights. Yet these are effective scares, and because the movie allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves a captivating and entertaining
