Typically, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems largely depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out quite entertaining.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Growth
One of this movie's strongest assets is its excellent rhythm. It begins with a memorable initial scene in which a calm family party gets suddenly interrupted when a van crashes right into the guest area. Out of the van, a very zombie-like stranger stumbles out proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to see this household prior to the disaster struck.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient opportunity to get to know the primary characters before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably led to a rift between the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured but a bit inept socially, and he loves gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch is her dad, who runs a well-known natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on only two things: his work and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely tense.
Invested in the Drama
I became so engrossed in the household's issues along with their personal conflicts to the point I almost overlooked this was a scary movie—which might seem like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime to showing us the identity of every family member is, and how they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting personalities enabled me to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat for this style that often introduces individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine surprise when things eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges in fact evoke the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a Korean drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking a sudden turn toward "holy shit" territory. These introductory scenes aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient time to immerse in the setting before everything gets upended.
Original Zombification Origin
The film also offers a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Instead of a unintended lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition originates in a recent batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. Although we do learn a bit about 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 producing a deadly potion which seems to include an extremely infectious virus. Despite the limited context, the effect this affliction has on people is utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also very realistic, and are practically certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some examples of questionable choices (like any any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick an undead in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with whatever heavy object is available rather than freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a welcome realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for everything! cliché frequently used in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still clinging to bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—seem realistic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This makes the moments where these individuals do show appreciation toward one another feel much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep insight about family or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are effective frights, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to develop and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the outcome is an engaging and enjoyable
