For the most part, I've grown tired of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems largely exhausted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. But, Netflix's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Pacing and Personal Development
One of the film's greatest strengths lies in the superb pacing. It begins using a striking initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted by a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like individual stumbles out proceeding attacking the attendees. This dramatic moment is then followed by a flashback, allowing us to see the family prior to the disaster struck.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives the audience sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex close friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. This has predictably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and he loves playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household head consists of Nes' father, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two aspects: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is extremely strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so invested with this family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—which might sound like a negative, but in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every relative represents, and how they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled the audience to connect to the personalities sufficiently to care about their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style which frequently presents characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to consume, so it's a real shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and various family interactions in fact evoke the film Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor before taking a sudden shift into "holy shit" ground. These early moments don't focus as much on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives enough opportunity to settle into the setting before everything gets upended.
Original Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting reason regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a recent sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent additional time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a lethal potion which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of background, the impact this condition produces on humans is utterly disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a bold choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear very realistic, and are almost guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
More impressive compared to the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see some instances of questionable choices (as in typical zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available instead of standing still like a deer caught in lights while danger nears.
Realistic Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord once individuals start turning to the undead, which was a welcome realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains holding onto resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—seem realistic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This makes those instances when these characters do show appreciation for each other feel far more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep insight regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up scares. Yet these are successful frights, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and entertaining
