For the most part, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. While favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, this category feels largely depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. However, Netflix's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated and proved quite enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Character Development
One of the film's strongest assets lies in the superb rhythm. It begins with a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly interrupted by a vehicle plows right into the guest area. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding attacking the partygoers. This dramatic moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe this household prior to the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir truly gives viewers enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a ex best friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. This has understandably led to a rift between Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and he enjoys playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and who seems to care about only two aspects: his work and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so invested 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 in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of the film depicting viewers the identity of every family member is, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting traits enabled me to relate with the characters sufficiently to care about their outcome—an uncommon feat in a genre that often presents individuals just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to consume, thus it's a genuine surprise once events finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and various family interactions actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades as a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy before making an abrupt turn toward shocking ground. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient time to immerse in its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
This movie also offers a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the cause for this infectious condition originates in a recent batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. While we do learn a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the movie devoted a little more focus on how Wani Waras went from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal elixir which seems to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of context, the effect this affliction has on humans proves absolutely disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear very realistic, and they're practically certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are a few examples of questionable decision-making (like any typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike an undead in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like prey caught in lights as death approaches.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a welcome realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they agree via telephone to meet up at a nearby location. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This causes those instances where these individuals do show gratitude for each other feel much more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound message about family or community, as well. Rather, it's mostly delivering frights. Yet these are successful scares, and since the film allows every personality enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
