Generally speaking, I'm over apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre feels mostly depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Personal Development
Among the film's greatest assets is its superb rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable opening sequence where a peaceful family party is violently interrupted when a vehicle crashes into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately followed by a flashback, allowing us to see the family before the tragedy struck.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough time to become acquainted with its main characters prior to the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex best friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—a clearly awkward situation. This has predictably led to a falling out among the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted but socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. This household patriarch is Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and who appears to care about only two aspects: his business and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves extremely tense.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed in the household's issues along with their personal conflicts to the point I almost forgot I was watching a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of the film to showing viewers the identity of every family member is, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting traits enabled me to relate with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre that often introduces characters just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and the multiple family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a Korean drama with somewhat morbid humor before taking a sudden turn into shocking territory. These early scenes aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient time to immerse in the setting before it gets upended.
Unique Zombification Source
The film additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading transformation. Instead of a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source of this contagious disease originates in a recent sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. While we do learn something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted additional time on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion which seems to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the lack of context, the effect this condition has on people proves utterly disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very realistic, and they're practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of questionable decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick an undead in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with the nearest heavy object they find instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights as death approaches.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord when people begin transforming to the undead, which was a welcome authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains clinging to resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they agree over the phone to meet up at a close spot. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals do show gratitude for each other feel far more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message regarding relatives or community, either. Instead, it's mostly serving up scares. Yet these are successful frights, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves a captivating and enjoyable
