Generally speaking, I've had my fill of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, this category feels mostly depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations and proved quite enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Personal Growth
One of this movie's strongest strengths is its excellent rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene where a calm family party is violently interrupted when a vehicle crashes into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking individual emerges proceeding assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is immediately followed by a look back, allowing us to observe this household prior to the disaster struck.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows the audience sufficient time to get to know the primary personalities before the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has understandably led to a falling out between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who enjoys playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. The family patriarch is her dad, who runs a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on only two things: his business and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves incredibly tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed with this family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts that I almost forgot I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of the film to showing viewers who each relative is, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on conflicting traits allowed me to relate with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—a rare feat for this style which frequently introduces characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to consume, thus it's a genuine surprise once events finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring slightly dark comedy before taking an abrupt turn into shocking ground. These early moments aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient opportunity to settle into its world prior to it gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
The film also offers a quite intriguing reason for the source of the spreading transformation. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a new sample from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While we do learn a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the film devoted additional focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion which seems to contain a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited background, the effect this affliction has on people proves absolutely repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and are almost guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of dubious decision-making (like any typical undead film), but generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with whatever heavy object is available instead of standing still like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord when people begin transforming into zombies, which was a welcome realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still holding onto resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they decide via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been building for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—seem realistic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This causes those instances when these characters do show gratitude for each other feel far more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep insight about family or society, either. Instead, it's mostly serving up frights. But they're successful scares, and because the film allows every personality enough room to grow and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and entertaining
