Typically, I'm over zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre feels largely exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. But, Netflix's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.
Excellent Pacing and Character Growth
One of this movie's greatest strengths lies in the superb rhythm. It kicks off with a striking opening sequence in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly disrupted when a vehicle crashes into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like individual stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This intense moment is immediately followed by a flashback, allowing us to see the family before the disaster struck.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough time to get to know the primary characters before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has predictably led to a falling out between Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and he loves playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently been unfaithful to her. The family head consists of Nes' father, who runs a popular natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on just two aspects: his work and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama that I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a significant portion of its runtime depicting us who each relative represents, and how they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled me to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat in a genre that often presents individuals only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a real surprise once events finally go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy prior to making an abrupt turn into "holy shit" ground. These early scenes aren't centered too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to settle into its world before everything gets upended.
Unique Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition originates in a new sample of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. Although we do learn a bit about its origins, I wish the movie had spent additional time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the impact this affliction has on humans is absolutely disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a bold choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also quite realistic, and are practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, we see a few instances of dubious decision-making (like any any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and sharp. They also aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like a deer caught in lights as death approaches.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord when people begin transforming to the undead, which was a welcome authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they agree over the phone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem realistic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to push the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This causes the moments when these characters do show appreciation toward one another feel far more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound insight about family or community, either. Rather, it's mostly delivering scares. But they're successful frights, and since the movie allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result is a captivating and entertaining
