Typically, I'm over undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category feels largely depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. But, Netflix's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Development
One of the film's greatest strengths is its superb pacing. It kicks off using a memorable opening sequence where a peaceful family party is violently interrupted when a van plows right into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual emerges and begins assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic moment is then followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe the family prior to the tragedy struck.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly gives viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex close friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—an obviously awkward situation. Naturally, this has understandably led to a rift among Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured but socially awkward, and who loves gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have recently been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch consists of Nes' father, who runs a well-known natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two things: his work and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts that I nearly forgot this was a scary movie—something that could sound like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of the film depicting viewers the identity of every family member represents, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting personalities allowed me to relate to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat for this style which frequently presents individuals only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a real shock when things finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and the multiple family interactions actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades as a Korean drama with slightly dark comedy before making a sudden shift toward shocking ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough time to settle into the setting before it gets upended.
Original Infection Source
The film also offers a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the cause for this contagious disease stems from a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding how it started, I wish the movie devoted a little more time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a deadly elixir which seems to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the lack of background, the impact this affliction has on humans proves utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a bold decision, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and are practically guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
Even better compared to the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, we see some examples of dubious decision-making (as in typical undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument is available rather than freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord when people start turning into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still holding onto bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they decide over the phone to meet up at a close location. But when Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the notion that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances when these characters do show appreciation toward one another feel far more genuine.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message about family or community, either. Rather, it's mostly delivering frights. But they're effective frights, and because the film gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable
