Typically, I'm over undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre seems largely exhausted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Development
One of this movie's greatest assets lies in the superb rhythm. It kicks off with a memorable initial scene where a peaceful family party is violently disrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense moment is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe the family before the tragedy occurred.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient time to get to know the primary characters prior to the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a married mother whose former close friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has understandably led to a rift between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and who enjoys gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch is her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on only two aspects: his work and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves extremely tense.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed in the household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—something that could sound like a drawback, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film depicting us who each relative represents, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on conflicting personalities enabled me to connect to the personalities enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently presents characters just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to devour, so it's a real shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and various household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a K-Drama with slightly dark humor prior to making a sudden turn toward shocking territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives enough time to settle into the setting prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition originates in a new batch from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While we do learn something regarding its origins, I wish the movie devoted a little more time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal elixir which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Despite the limited context, the impact this condition produces on humans is utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a bold choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear quite convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some examples of questionable decision-making (like any any good zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with whatever blunt instrument they find rather than standing still like prey caught in lights as death approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord once individuals start turning to the undead, this proved a welcome realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for everything! trope often seen in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they decide via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This causes the moments where these individuals do show gratitude for each other feel far more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound message about family or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're successful scares, and since the film allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result is an engaging and enjoyable
