For the most part, I'm over zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category feels mostly exhausted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out remarkably entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Character Growth
Among the film's greatest strengths is its superb rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable opening sequence in which a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly interrupted by a van plows right into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out and begins attacking the partygoers. This intense scene is then followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe this household prior to the disaster occurred.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough opportunity to get to know its main personalities prior to the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—a clearly awkward situation. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out among the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who loves playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on Nes. This household patriarch is Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and he seems to care about just two aspects: his work and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so invested in the household's issues along with their personal conflicts that I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a negative, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of the film to showing us who each family member represents, plus the ways they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed the audience to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style which frequently presents characters just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and various family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a K-Drama with slightly dark humor before making an abrupt turn toward shocking territory. These introductory scenes aren't centered too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to settle into the setting prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Source
The film additionally presents a fairly intriguing reason for the source of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the cause for this infectious condition stems from a new batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. Although some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to include a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the limited background, the impact this condition has on people proves utterly disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a bold choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, we see some instances of dubious choices (like any any good undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives are inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with the nearest heavy object they find instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict when people begin transforming into zombies, which was a pleasantly realistic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes loves her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they decide over the phone to regroup at a close spot. However, once Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try to promote the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes the moments when these characters do show gratitude for each other feel much more genuine.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound insight regarding relatives or community, as well. Instead, it's mostly delivering frights. But they're successful scares, and since the film gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is a captivating and entertaining
