For the most part, I've had my fill of zombie movies. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category seems largely depleted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for months. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Character Development
One of the film's greatest strengths is its superb rhythm. It begins with a striking initial scene in which a calm family party gets suddenly interrupted when a van plows into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking individual stumbles out and begins attacking the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately followed by a look back, giving viewers to see the family before the tragedy occurred.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough opportunity to get to know the primary characters before the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose former best friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has predictably led to a rift among Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and who loves playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. The family head consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly tense.
Invested in the Drama
I became so invested in the household's issues and their personal conflicts to the point I almost forgot I was watching a horror film—something that could sound like a drawback, but in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film to showing viewers who each relative represents, plus the ways they add to the general dysfunction. This focus on clashing personalities enabled me to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently introduces characters just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and various family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy prior to making a sudden shift into shocking territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to immerse in the setting before it gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Source
This movie also offers a quite interesting explanation for the source of the spreading transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a recent sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. Although some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the movie devoted additional time on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion that appears to contain a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the impact this condition produces on humans proves utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and are almost guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better compared to the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few examples of questionable decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick an undead in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument they find instead of standing still like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord once individuals start turning into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes loves her family and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains holding onto bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they agree over the phone to meet up at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This causes the moments where these individuals do show gratitude toward one another seem far more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message about family or community, either. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're successful frights, and since the movie allows every personality sufficient space to develop and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the outcome is an engaging and entertaining
