For the most part, I'm over zombie movies. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre seems mostly depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations turning out remarkably entertaining.
Impressive Pacing and Personal Growth
One of this movie's strongest strengths lies in the superb pacing. It begins with a memorable opening sequence where a peaceful family party is violently interrupted by a vehicle plows right into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual stumbles out and begins assaulting the attendees. This intense moment is then followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe the family before the tragedy struck.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly allows viewers enough time to get to know its main personalities before the chaos begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—a clearly awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably caused a rift among Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he loves gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. The family patriarch consists of Nes' father, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he appears to care about only two aspects: his work and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is extremely tense.
Invested in the Drama
I became so engrossed in the family's dynamics and their personal conflicts that I almost overlooked this was a scary movie—which might sound like a drawback, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film depicting us who each family member represents, and how they add to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled the audience to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment for this style that often presents individuals only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to consume, thus it's a genuine shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and various family interactions in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a K-Drama with somewhat morbid humor before making an abrupt shift toward shocking territory. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to settle into the setting prior to everything gets upended.
Unique Infection Origin
This movie also offers a fairly intriguing reason regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Instead of an accidental lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. Although we do learn something regarding how it started, I wish the movie had spent additional focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the lack of background, the impact this affliction produces on people is absolutely disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a daring decision, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also quite convincing, and are almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
More impressive compared to the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of questionable decision-making (as in typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her family are resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick an undead in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with the nearest heavy object is available rather than freezing like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict when people start turning into zombies, this proved a pleasantly realistic 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 frequently used in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes loves her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree over the phone to meet up at a nearby location. But when Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try to push the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes those instances when these characters do show gratitude toward one another seem much more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound message regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. Yet these are effective frights, and since the film allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable
