Typically, I'm over apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre seems largely depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.
Superb Pacing and Character Development
One of this movie's greatest strengths lies in the excellent pacing. It kicks off with a striking opening sequence where a calm family party gets suddenly interrupted when a van crashes into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking stranger emerges proceeding attacking the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, allowing us to observe the family prior to the disaster struck.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough opportunity to become acquainted with its main characters prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a married mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—a clearly awkward situation. Naturally, this has predictably led to a rift among Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured but socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to her. The family head consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on only two aspects: his work and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves extremely tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed with this family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama that I nearly forgot this was a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of the film depicting viewers who each relative represents, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing traits allowed me to relate to the personalities sufficiently to care about their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style which frequently introduces characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to devour, so it's a genuine surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and various family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a Korean drama featuring slightly dark humor prior to taking an abrupt shift into shocking ground. These early scenes don't focus as much on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient time to settle into the setting prior to it gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Origin
The film additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a new batch from Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. While some background is provided a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent a little more time on how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a lethal potion that appears to contain an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this affliction has on humans proves utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very realistic, and are practically guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see a few examples of dubious decision-making (like any any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick an undead in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument is available rather than freezing like prey caught in lights as death nears.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict when people begin transforming into zombies, which was a pleasantly realistic subversion 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 apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree via telephone to meet up at a close spot. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This makes those instances where these individuals express gratitude toward one another feel much more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound insight regarding relatives or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're successful scares, and since the movie allows every personality enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and entertaining
