Typically, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre seems largely depleted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for months. But, Netflix's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Personal Growth
One of the film's strongest strengths is its excellent pacing. It begins using a striking initial scene where a calm family party is violently disrupted by a vehicle crashes into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like stranger emerges and begins attacking the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe this household prior to the tragedy occurred.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient time to get to know its main characters prior to the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother with a ex best friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has understandably led to a rift among Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured yet socially awkward, and he loves gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. The family head is her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on just two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so invested in the family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts that I almost forgot I was watching a scary movie—something that could seem like a drawback, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a significant amount of the film depicting us the identity of every relative is, and how they add to the general turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled me to connect to the personalities sufficiently to care about their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style which frequently introduces individuals just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to consume, so it's a genuine surprise once events finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to making a sudden turn into "holy shit" ground. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough time to immerse in the setting prior to everything gets upended.
Original Zombification Origin
The film also offers a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the cause for this infectious condition stems from a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. Although we do learn a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the movie had spent additional focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal elixir which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of context, the effect this affliction has on people is utterly repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's undead are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a daring decision, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also very realistic, and they're almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few examples of questionable decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with whatever heavy object is available rather than 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, this proved a pleasantly realistic deviation from the "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 apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains clinging to bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they decide over the phone to meet up at a close spot. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been building for years. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel realistic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to push the notion that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals do show gratitude toward one another feel much more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep insight about family or community, either. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are effective scares, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
