Generally speaking, I'm over undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category seems mostly depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated turning out quite entertaining.
Impressive Pacing and Character Development
Among this movie's greatest strengths lies in the excellent rhythm. It kicks off with a striking opening sequence in which a peaceful family party is violently interrupted by a vehicle plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like individual stumbles out proceeding attacking the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe this household before the disaster occurred.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough time to get to know its main personalities prior to the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former best friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably led to a rift between the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured yet socially awkward, and who enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on Nes. This household patriarch consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on only two things: his work and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so invested in the household's issues and their personal conflicts to the point I almost forgot this was a scary movie—something that could sound like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime to showing us who each family member represents, plus the ways they contribute to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting traits allowed the audience to connect with the characters sufficiently to care about their fate—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently introduces individuals only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to devour, thus it's a real shock once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and various household exchanges actually evoke the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama with slightly dark comedy prior to taking a sudden turn into shocking ground. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still gives sufficient opportunity to settle into the setting prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Instead of a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition stems from a recent batch from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although some background is provided a bit about its origins, I wish the film had spent additional focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir which seems to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the limited background, the impact this affliction produces on humans proves utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a bold decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear very realistic, and they're almost guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
Even better compared to the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are some examples of questionable decision-making (as in any good undead film), however generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick an undead in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available rather than freezing like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a welcome authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they agree over the phone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem realistic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters do show appreciation toward one another feel much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep message about family or society, either. Rather, it's primarily serving up scares. But they're successful scares, and since the film gives each character sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is a captivating and enjoyable
