Typically, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre seems largely exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. However, Netflix's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out quite entertaining.
Excellent Pacing and Personal Growth
One of the film's strongest strengths lies in the superb rhythm. It begins with a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family party gets suddenly disrupted when a vehicle plows right into the guest area. Out of the van, a very undead-looking individual emerges and begins assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to see this household prior to the disaster occurred.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually gives the audience sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. This has understandably caused a falling out between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured yet socially awkward, and he enjoys gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on her. This household patriarch consists of her dad, who runs a well-known natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on only two aspects: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so invested with this household's issues and their interpersonal drama that I almost overlooked I was watching a scary movie—something that could seem like a drawback, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of the film depicting us the identity of every relative represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting personalities enabled the audience to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare feat for this style which frequently presents characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to devour, thus it's a real surprise once events finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama with slightly dark humor prior to making an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" ground. These early moments aren't centered too heavily on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to immerse in the setting before it gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Source
The film also offers a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a recent sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. While we do learn something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the movie had spent additional time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a lethal elixir which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of background, the effect this condition produces on people proves absolutely repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also quite realistic, and they're practically certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, we see some instances of dubious choices (as in any good undead film), however generally, Nes and her family are inventive and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available rather than freezing like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, this proved a pleasantly realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains holding onto resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they agree over the phone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters express appreciation toward one another feel much more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound insight about family or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. Yet these are successful frights, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the outcome is a captivating and enjoyable
