For the most part, I've had my fill of zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems mostly depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Personal Development
Among the film's strongest assets lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off with a memorable opening sequence where a peaceful family party gets suddenly interrupted when a vehicle plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like stranger stumbles out proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a look back, giving viewers to see the family before the disaster struck.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with its main characters prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a married mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has understandably caused a rift between Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and he loves gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. This household head is her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who appears to care about just two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so invested with this household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot I was watching a scary movie—something that could sound like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of its runtime depicting us the identity of every relative represents, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This focus on clashing traits enabled the audience to connect to the personalities sufficiently to care about their outcome—a rare feat for this style that often introduces characters only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine shock when things finally go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and various family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a Korean drama with slightly dark humor before making an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient time to immerse in its world before it gets upended.
Original Infection Origin
This movie also offers a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a recent sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. Although some background is provided a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the film devoted a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the limited background, the impact this affliction has on people is utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a daring decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also quite convincing, and they're almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Of course, we see some examples of dubious choices (like any any good zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to kick an undead in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with whatever heavy object they find rather than standing still like prey in headlights while danger nears.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a welcome realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for everything! cliché frequently used in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes loves her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains holding onto bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters express appreciation for each other seem much more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound insight regarding relatives or society, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up scares. Yet these are successful scares, and since the film allows every personality enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
