Generally speaking, I'm over undead films. While favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category seems largely depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated and proved quite enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Personal Development
Among the film's greatest strengths is its excellent rhythm. It begins using a striking opening sequence in which a calm family gathering is violently interrupted by a van crashes into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This intense scene is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe this household before the tragedy struck.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually gives the audience sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary characters before the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and who enjoys playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household head consists of her dad, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he appears to care about only two things: his work and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is extremely strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked I was watching a scary movie—something that could seem like a negative, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of the film to showing us who each family member is, and how they add to the general turmoil. This focus on clashing personalities allowed me to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently presents characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to consume, so it's a genuine surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and various family interactions actually evoke the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid humor prior to taking an abrupt turn toward shocking territory. These introductory scenes aren't centered too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to immerse in its world before it gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
This movie also offers a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a new batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. Although some background is provided something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the movie devoted additional focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the limited background, the effect this condition produces on people is absolutely disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring decision, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also very convincing, and are almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are a few examples of dubious decision-making (as in any good undead film), however generally, Nes and her family are inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike an undead in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with whatever heavy object they find instead of freezing like a deer in headlights while danger nears.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, this proved a welcome realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for everything! cliché frequently used in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they decide via telephone to regroup at a nearby location. But when Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—seem realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to promote the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters do show appreciation for each other feel far more sincere.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep insight about family or society, either. Rather, it's mostly serving up frights. Yet these are successful frights, and because the movie allows every personality sufficient space to grow and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the outcome is an engaging and enjoyable
