Typically, I've had my fill of undead films. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre feels largely depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for months. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations and proved quite entertaining.
Impressive Pacing and Character Growth
One of the film's strongest strengths is its superb rhythm. It begins with a striking initial scene where a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted when a vehicle crashes into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking individual stumbles out and begins assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then followed by a flashback, allowing us to observe this household before the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually allows the audience sufficient opportunity to get to know its main personalities prior to the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a former close friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—a clearly awkward situation. Naturally, this has predictably caused a rift among the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who loves playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. This household patriarch consists of her dad, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two aspects: his business and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is incredibly strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a drawback, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every relative represents, and how they add to the general turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled the audience to relate to the personalities sufficiently to care about their outcome—a rare feat in a genre which frequently introduces individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a real shock once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and the multiple family interactions actually evoke the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy before taking a sudden turn toward "holy shit" territory. These early scenes don't focus as much on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to settle into the setting prior to everything gets upended.
Original Zombification Source
The film also offers a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a new sample of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. Although some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the movie had spent a little more time explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir that appears to contain an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the lack of context, the effect this affliction has on humans proves absolutely disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a daring decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also very realistic, and are almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see some instances of dubious choices (as in any good undead film), but generally, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and sharp. They also don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with the nearest heavy object they find instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord once individuals start turning to the undead, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes loves her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains holding onto resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they decide via telephone to meet up at a close spot. However, once Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals do show appreciation for each other feel far more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound insight about family or community, either. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're successful frights, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves a captivating and entertaining
