For the most part, I'm over undead films. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre seems mostly exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for months. However, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Character Development
One of the film's strongest strengths is its superb pacing. It begins using a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted when a van plows right into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like stranger emerges and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately followed by a look back, allowing us to observe the family prior to the tragedy struck.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough time to get to know the primary personalities before the chaos begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable situation. This has predictably caused a falling out between the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured yet socially awkward, and who loves playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on her. The family head consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular natural medicine company named Wani Waras, and he seems focused on just two things: his work and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves incredibly strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed with this family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked this was a horror film—which might seem like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every relative represents, and how they add to the general turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting personalities enabled the audience to relate to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre that often introduces characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to devour, thus it's a real surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid humor before making an abrupt shift toward "holy shit" territory. These early moments don't focus as much on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still gives sufficient time to settle into the setting prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Source
This movie additionally presents a quite interesting explanation for the source of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition originates in a new sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. While we do learn a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the film had spent a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to include a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the limited context, the impact this affliction has on people is absolutely repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a bold decision, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear quite convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
Even better than the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are some instances of questionable decision-making (as in any good undead film), however generally, Nes and her family are resourceful and sharp. They also aren't afraid to strike an undead in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument is available rather than standing still like prey in headlights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, this proved a welcome realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they decide via telephone to regroup at a close location. But when Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel authentic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the idea that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This makes those instances where these individuals do show appreciation for each other seem much more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound insight regarding relatives or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are successful frights, and since the film gives each character sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome is a captivating and entertaining
