For the most part, I'm over zombie movies. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre feels largely exhausted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. However, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out quite entertaining.
Impressive Pacing and Personal Development
Among this movie's strongest assets is its superb rhythm. It kicks off with a striking initial scene where a peaceful family party is violently disrupted when a vehicle plows into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like stranger emerges proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic moment is then succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe the family prior to the tragedy struck.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir truly gives the audience enough time to become acquainted with its main characters prior to the chaos begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has understandably caused a rift among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and he enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. The family patriarch consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he appears to care about only two aspects: his business and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is extremely strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed in the household's issues and their interpersonal drama that I almost forgot this was a scary movie—something that could sound like a drawback, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of the film depicting us the identity of every family member represents, and how they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled the audience to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre that often presents individuals just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to consume, so it's a real surprise once events finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor prior to taking a sudden turn into shocking territory. These early moments aren't centered too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient time to immerse in its world prior to everything gets upended.
Unique Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition originates in a new batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. While we do learn a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the movie had spent additional time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of holistic medicine to creating a lethal potion that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited background, the effect this condition has on humans proves absolutely repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a bold choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear very convincing, and are practically certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better than the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, we see a few instances of dubious decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to strike an undead in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument they find instead of standing still like a deer in headlights as death approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals start turning to the undead, which was a welcome authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for everything! cliché often seen in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes loves her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they agree over the phone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals express gratitude for each other feel much more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep message about family or community, either. Instead, it's primarily delivering frights. Yet these are successful scares, and because the movie gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves a captivating and entertaining
