For the most part, I've had my fill of undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre feels mostly depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, Netflix's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated and proved remarkably entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Character Growth
Among this movie's greatest assets is its superb rhythm. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence in which a peaceful family party is violently disrupted by a van plows right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger emerges proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense scene is then followed by a look back, giving viewers to observe this household prior to the disaster occurred.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough time to become acquainted with the primary characters before the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose former close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out between the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and he loves gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on her. This household patriarch consists of Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and he seems to care about just two things: his work and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is incredibly tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so engrossed in the household's issues along with their personal conflicts to the point I almost overlooked I was watching a scary movie—which might seem like a negative, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a significant amount of the film depicting us the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing traits allowed me to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare feat for this style that often introduces characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to devour, thus it's a real shock once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and various family interactions in fact evoke the film Parasite, a story that masquerades as a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy prior to making an abrupt turn into shocking territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough opportunity to settle into its world before everything gets upended.
Original Infection Source
The film also offers a quite intriguing reason for the source of the spreading transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a recent sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. Although some background is provided something regarding how it started, I wish the movie devoted a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Despite the lack of background, the effect this condition has on humans proves absolutely disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a bold decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear very convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are some instances of dubious decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her family are resourceful and sharp. They also aren't afraid to kick an undead in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument they find rather than standing still like a deer caught in lights while danger nears.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord when people begin transforming into zombies, this proved a welcome authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide over the phone to meet up at a close location. But when Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals express appreciation for each other feel much more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep insight regarding relatives or community, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up frights. Yet these are effective frights, and since the movie gives each character enough room to grow and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
