For the most part, I've grown tired of undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems largely exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated and proved quite entertaining.
Impressive Pacing and Personal Development
One of the film's strongest assets lies in the excellent rhythm. It begins using a memorable opening sequence in which a peaceful family party gets suddenly interrupted by a vehicle crashes right into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like individual emerges proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This intense moment is then followed by a flashback, giving viewers to see the family prior to the tragedy occurred.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough time to become acquainted with the primary personalities prior to the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother whose former best friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and he loves gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on Nes. The family patriarch consists of Nes' father, the owner of a well-known natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on only two aspects: his work and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves incredibly 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 horror film—which might seem like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a significant portion of the film depicting viewers the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting traits enabled me to connect to the personalities sufficiently to care about their fate—a rare accomplishment in a genre that often introduces characters just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a real surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and various household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy before making an abrupt turn into shocking ground. These introductory scenes don't focus too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives enough time to immerse in its world prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Origin
This movie also offers a fairly intriguing reason for the source of the contagious transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this contagious disease stems from a new sample of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the movie devoted a little more time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir that appears to contain a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of background, the impact this condition has on people proves absolutely disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's undead are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also very realistic, and they're almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see some instances of dubious choices (like any typical undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and sharp. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with whatever heavy object is available instead of standing still like prey in headlights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a pleasantly realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for everything! cliché often seen in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they decide over the phone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—seem authentic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters express gratitude for each other seem much more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound message about family or community, as well. Instead, it's mostly serving up frights. But they're successful scares, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is an engaging and entertaining
