For the most part, I'm over zombie movies. 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. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. However, Netflix's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations and proved quite entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Development
One of the film's strongest strengths lies in the excellent rhythm. It kicks off with a striking opening sequence where a calm family gathering is violently interrupted when a vehicle plows into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding attacking the partygoers. This dramatic moment is then succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to see the family prior to the disaster occurred.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir truly gives the audience enough time to get to know its main characters prior to the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—an obviously awkward situation. Naturally, this has understandably led to a falling out among the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured but socially awkward, and who enjoys playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. The family patriarch is Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who appears to care about just two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed with this household's issues and their personal conflicts that I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a negative, but in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every relative represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled me to relate with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat in a genre which frequently presents characters just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to devour, so it's a genuine surprise when things finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges in fact evoke the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a Korean drama featuring slightly dark humor before taking a sudden shift into shocking ground. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough time to settle into the setting prior to everything gets upended.
Unique Zombification Source
The film additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the source for this contagious disease originates in a recent batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. While we do learn something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted a little more focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal elixir which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the limited background, the impact this affliction produces on people proves utterly disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's undead prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a daring decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear quite realistic, and they're practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
Even better compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see some examples of dubious choices (as in any good zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available rather than standing still like prey in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict when people start turning into zombies, which was a welcome realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains clinging to bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they decide via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to promote the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances when these characters express gratitude toward one another feel far more genuine.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep message about family or society, either. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are effective frights, and because the film gives each character sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome is a captivating and enjoyable
