Generally speaking, I've grown tired of zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre seems largely depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Character Growth
One of the film's strongest strengths is its superb rhythm. It begins using a striking initial scene in which a calm family party gets suddenly interrupted when a vehicle plows into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a look back, giving viewers to see this household before the disaster struck.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir truly gives the audience enough opportunity to get to know the primary personalities before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable situation. This has predictably led to a rift between the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who enjoys gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household head is Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on just two aspects: his work and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves extremely strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so invested in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost overlooked I was watching a scary movie—which might sound like a negative, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a significant portion of the film to showing viewers the identity of every relative represents, and how they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled the audience to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare feat in a genre which frequently introduces individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to devour, thus it's a real shock when things finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and various family interactions actually evoke the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a Korean drama featuring slightly dark humor before taking a sudden turn toward shocking territory. These early moments don't focus as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides sufficient time to settle into its world prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While we do learn a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir which seems to include an extremely infectious virus. Despite the lack of context, the effect this affliction produces on people is utterly repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear quite convincing, and are practically guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of questionable decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and sharp. They also don't hesitate to kick an undead in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like prey in headlights while danger nears.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, which was a welcome authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been building for years. Nes is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the idea that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals express appreciation for each other seem much more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound insight regarding relatives or community, either. Instead, it's mostly serving up scares. Yet these are effective frights, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to develop and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable
