Generally speaking, I've had my fill of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems largely exhausted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated turning out quite entertaining.
Excellent Rhythm and Personal Growth
Among the film's strongest strengths is its superb rhythm. It begins using a memorable opening sequence in which a peaceful family party gets suddenly disrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense moment is then followed by a look back, allowing us to see this household prior to the disaster occurred.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir truly allows the audience enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters before the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex best friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has understandably led to a rift among Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured but a bit inept socially, and he enjoys gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on Nes. The family head consists of her dad, who runs a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he appears focused on just two aspects: his business and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is incredibly tense.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed with this household's issues along with their personal conflicts that I nearly forgot I was watching a scary movie—something that could seem like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a significant amount of the film to showing viewers the identity of every family member represents, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing personalities enabled me to relate with the characters enough to care about their outcome—a rare accomplishment for this style which frequently introduces characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine surprise when things eventually go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges in fact evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a Korean drama with somewhat morbid comedy before making an abrupt shift into shocking ground. These early moments aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient opportunity to settle into the setting prior to it gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Source
The film also offers a fairly interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the source of this contagious disease originates in a recent sample from Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. Although we do learn a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to contain an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the impact this condition has on humans is utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a daring choice, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear quite realistic, and they're practically certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better than the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of dubious choices (as in typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives are inventive and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to kick an undead in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument they find instead of standing still like prey caught in lights while danger nears.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict when people start turning into zombies, this proved a welcome realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes loves her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close location. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been building for years. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This makes the moments when these characters do show appreciation for each other feel much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound insight about family or community, as well. Rather, it's mostly delivering scares. Yet these are successful frights, and because the movie gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves a captivating and enjoyable
