Typically, I'm over apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre feels mostly depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for months. However, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations and proved quite enjoyable.
Impressive Pacing and Character Development
One of the film's strongest assets lies in the superb rhythm. It kicks off with a memorable opening sequence in which a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted by a vehicle plows into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual emerges and begins attacking the attendees. This dramatic moment is then followed by a look back, giving viewers to see this household prior to the disaster occurred.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir truly gives viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with its main personalities prior to the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a former best friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. This has predictably led to a rift among the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured but socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household patriarch is Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two aspects: his work and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so invested in the household's issues and their personal conflicts that I almost overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could sound like a drawback, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film depicting us the identity of every family member is, plus the ways they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities allowed me to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare feat for this style which frequently introduces characters only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to consume, so it's a genuine shock when things finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple family interactions in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a Korean drama with slightly dark comedy prior to taking an abrupt shift into "holy shit" ground. These early scenes aren't centered too heavily on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough time to settle into the setting prior to it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
The film also offers a fairly interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the cause of this contagious disease originates in a new batch from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While we do learn something regarding its origins, I wish the film devoted additional focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a deadly potion that appears to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of context, the effect this affliction has on people is absolutely repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear quite convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are some examples of dubious decision-making (like any typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick an undead in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available rather than freezing like a deer in headlights while danger nears.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord once individuals start turning to the undead, which was a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes loves her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still clinging to bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments when these characters do show appreciation toward one another feel much more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep message about family or society, either. Instead, it's primarily delivering frights. Yet these are successful frights, and since the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the outcome proves an engaging and entertaining
