Typically, I've had my fill of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre seems largely exhausted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for months. However, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Development
One of the film's strongest strengths lies in the superb pacing. It begins using a striking opening sequence in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly interrupted by a vehicle crashes into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This intense scene is then followed by a flashback, allowing us to see this household before the disaster struck.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly allows viewers sufficient time to get to know its main personalities before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a married mother with a former best friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—a clearly awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably caused a rift between Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and who enjoys gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on Nes. The family head is Nes' father, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two aspects: his business and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves extremely tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed with this household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost overlooked this was a scary movie—which might sound like a negative, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of the film depicting viewers the identity of every relative is, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits allowed me to connect to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat in a genre which frequently presents individuals just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a real shock once events finally go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and the multiple family interactions in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a K-Drama with slightly dark comedy prior to taking an abrupt shift into "holy shit" territory. These early moments don't focus too heavily on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives sufficient opportunity to settle into the setting prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a fairly intriguing reason regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the cause for this contagious disease originates in a new sample from Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. Although some background is provided a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the movie devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to creating a deadly elixir which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of background, the effect this condition has on people proves absolutely disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are fast, 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 almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
More impressive than the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of dubious choices (like any any good undead film), however generally, Nes and her family are resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick an undead in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with whatever blunt instrument they find rather than standing still like a deer in headlights as death approaches.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord once individuals start turning to the undead, this proved a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they decide via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel authentic and understandable because the film doesn't try to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals express gratitude toward one another feel far more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep message regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're effective scares, and because the film allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome is an engaging and entertaining
