Typically, I've grown tired of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category seems largely depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. However, Netflix's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Character Growth
Among the film's strongest assets is its superb pacing. It begins with a memorable initial scene in which a calm family party is violently interrupted when a vehicle crashes into the guest area. Out of the van, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This intense scene is immediately succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to see this household prior to the tragedy struck.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough time to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex best friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—a clearly awkward situation. Naturally, this has understandably led to a rift between the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and who loves gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on Nes. This household patriarch consists of Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and he seems to care about just two aspects: his business and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is extremely strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed in the household's issues and their personal conflicts that I almost forgot this was a scary movie—something that could seem like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime to showing us the identity of every relative is, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits enabled the audience to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare feat for this style that often introduces individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to consume, thus it's a real surprise once events finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a Korean drama with slightly dark comedy prior to making a sudden shift into shocking territory. These introductory scenes aren't centered too heavily on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient opportunity to immerse in the setting before it gets upended.
Unique Zombification Origin
This movie also offers a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the movie had spent additional time explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to creating a lethal elixir that appears to contain a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the impact this affliction has on people proves absolutely disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's undead prove fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a bold choice, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also very realistic, and they're almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of questionable choices (like any typical undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick an undead in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like prey caught in lights while danger nears.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people start turning into zombies, which was a welcome realistic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes loves her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby location. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—seem authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to push the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments where these individuals express gratitude for each other seem far more genuine.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound insight regarding relatives or society, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are successful frights, and because the movie gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is an engaging and entertaining
