Generally speaking, I've had my fill of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, this category feels mostly depleted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for months. However, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations turning out remarkably entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Character Growth
Among this movie's strongest strengths is its superb pacing. It begins with a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted when a van crashes into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a look back, giving viewers to see this household before the tragedy struck.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with its main personalities before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a married mother with a former close friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—an obviously awkward dynamic. This has predictably led to a falling out among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who enjoys gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. The family head consists of Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he seems to care about only two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so invested with this household's issues and their personal conflicts to the point I nearly forgot this was a horror film—which might sound like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of its runtime to showing viewers who each family member represents, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This focus on conflicting traits enabled me to connect to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style which frequently presents characters just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine surprise when things eventually go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a Korean drama with slightly dark comedy before taking a sudden turn into shocking ground. These early moments aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient opportunity to immerse in the setting prior to it gets upended.
Original Infection Source
This movie also offers a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the cause for this infectious condition originates in a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. Although some background is provided something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the limited background, the impact this affliction has on people proves absolutely disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear quite realistic, and they're practically certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Of course, we see some instances of questionable decision-making (like any any good zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and sharp. They also don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument they find rather than freezing like prey in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord once individuals start turning to the undead, which was a pleasantly realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains clinging to resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide via telephone to regroup at a close spot. But when Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—feel authentic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the notion that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters do show gratitude for each other feel far more genuine.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight regarding relatives or society, either. Instead, it's mostly delivering frights. But they're effective frights, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves a captivating and entertaining
