For the most part, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. While favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre feels largely depleted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out quite entertaining.
Superb Pacing and Personal Growth
Among this movie's strongest strengths lies in the excellent pacing. It kicks off with a striking initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted by a van plows into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual emerges and begins attacking the partygoers. This dramatic scene is immediately followed by a look back, giving viewers to observe the family prior to the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with its main characters before the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a married mother whose ex best friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably led to a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured but socially awkward, and he loves gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to her. The family patriarch consists of Nes' father, the owner of a well-known natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on only two aspects: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is extremely tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so invested in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama that I nearly forgot this was a horror film—something that could sound like a negative, but in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film depicting viewers the identity of every family member represents, plus the ways they add to the general turmoil. This focus on conflicting traits allowed the audience to relate with the characters sufficiently to care about their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style which frequently presents characters just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of the undead to consume, so it's a genuine shock when things finally go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking a sudden shift toward shocking territory. These introductory scenes aren't centered too heavily on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient time to immerse in the setting prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Origin
This movie additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this contagious disease originates in a new batch from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film devoted a little more time on how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a lethal potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the lack of background, the effect this affliction has on humans proves utterly disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's undead are quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a daring decision, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and are almost guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some examples of questionable choices (as in typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights as death nears.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord when people start turning into zombies, this proved a pleasantly realistic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they agree over the phone to regroup at a nearby location. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals do show gratitude toward one another feel much more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound message about family or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily delivering scares. Yet these are successful scares, and since the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable
