Typically, I've had my fill of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre seems largely depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for months. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations and proved remarkably entertaining.
Impressive Rhythm and Personal Development
One of the film's strongest strengths is its excellent pacing. It begins using a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted by a van crashes right into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like stranger stumbles out proceeding attacking the partygoers. This dramatic moment is then succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to observe this household before the disaster occurred.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually gives the audience sufficient opportunity to get to know the primary personalities before the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—a clearly awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a rift between Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and who enjoys gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. The family head consists of Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he appears to care about just two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so invested in the family's dynamics and their personal conflicts to the point I almost forgot I was watching a scary movie—something that could sound like a negative, but in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every family member is, and how they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled the audience to connect with the characters enough to care about their outcome—a rare feat in a genre that often introduces individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a real surprise when things eventually go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a K-Drama with somewhat morbid humor before making a sudden shift toward shocking ground. These early moments don't focus as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives sufficient time to settle into the setting before everything gets upended.
Unique Zombification Origin
The film also offers a quite interesting reason regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Instead of a unintended lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this infectious condition originates in a recent sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. Although we do learn a bit about how it started, I wish the film had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to creating a deadly potion which seems to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the limited context, the impact this affliction has on people proves utterly repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a bold decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also quite convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some examples of questionable decision-making (like any typical zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike an undead in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available rather than standing still like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord when people start turning to the undead, this proved a welcome authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for everything! trope frequently used in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they agree via telephone to meet up at a close location. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been building for years. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel realistic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals express appreciation for each other feel far more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep insight about family or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up scares. Yet these are successful scares, and since the film gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is an engaging and entertaining