For the most part, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category feels largely exhausted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations and proved remarkably entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Development
Among the film's greatest strengths lies in the excellent pacing. It begins with a striking initial scene in which a peaceful family party is violently disrupted when a van crashes right into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking stranger stumbles out and begins assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic moment is then followed by a look back, allowing us to see the family prior to the disaster occurred.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows the audience enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary personalities prior to the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother with a ex best friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. This has understandably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and he enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on Nes. The family patriarch consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on only two aspects: his business and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves extremely tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so engrossed in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot this was a scary movie—which might sound like a negative, but in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime depicting viewers who each family member represents, plus the ways they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled me to connect to the personalities sufficiently to care about their fate—an uncommon feat for this style which frequently presents 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 consume, so it's a genuine surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring slightly dark humor before making a sudden turn toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory moments don't focus as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient time to settle into its world before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
This movie also offers a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the cause for this contagious disease originates in a new sample from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding how it started, I wish the movie devoted additional time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Despite the limited context, the effect this condition produces on people proves absolutely repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold choice, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and they're practically certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
More impressive than the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Of course, we see some instances of dubious decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike an undead in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available instead of standing still like prey in headlights as death nears.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict when people begin transforming into zombies, this proved a welcome authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for everything! trope frequently used in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains clinging to resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide over the phone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been building over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and relatable because the film doesn't try to push the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters express appreciation for each other seem far more sincere.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound message regarding relatives or society, either. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're effective frights, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome is a captivating and enjoyable
