For the most part, I'm over zombie movies. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre feels mostly exhausted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for months. However, Netflix's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.
Excellent Pacing and Character Growth
One of this movie's strongest strengths is its excellent rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted by a van plows right into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like individual stumbles out proceeding attacking the attendees. This dramatic moment is then succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to observe the family prior to the disaster occurred.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex close friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable situation. This has understandably led to a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured but socially awkward, and who loves playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on Nes. This household patriarch is her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he seems to care about just two things: his work and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves incredibly tense.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed with this family's dynamics and their personal conflicts that I nearly overlooked this was a scary movie—something that could sound like a negative, but in the end worked well. The Elixir spends a significant amount of the film depicting viewers who each relative represents, and how they add to the general turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits allowed me to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment in a genre that often introduces characters just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, disposable victims for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a real shock once events eventually go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and the multiple family interactions actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy before taking a sudden turn into shocking ground. These early scenes don't focus as much on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives enough time to immerse in the setting prior to it gets upended.
Original Zombification Source
This movie also offers a quite intriguing reason regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the source of this infectious condition stems from a new sample from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film devoted a little more focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to producing a lethal elixir which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this affliction has on humans is absolutely disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a bold choice, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear quite realistic, and they're almost guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive than the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, we see a few instances of questionable decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. 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 heavy object is available instead of standing still like prey caught in lights while danger nears.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a welcome 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!" trope often seen in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they decide over the phone to meet up at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been building for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—seem authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to push the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This causes the moments when these characters express appreciation toward one another seem far more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound message about family or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are successful frights, and since the film allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable
