Generally speaking, I've had my fill of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems mostly exhausted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated and proved quite enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Development
One of the film's greatest assets lies in the excellent pacing. It kicks off using a memorable opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted when a vehicle crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like individual emerges and begins assaulting the attendees. This intense scene is then succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to see this household before the tragedy struck.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir truly gives viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a ex best friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a rift between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured but a bit inept socially, and he loves gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on Nes. This household head is Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and who seems to care about only two aspects: his business and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves extremely tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so invested in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—which might sound like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film depicting viewers who each relative is, plus the ways they add to the general turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits enabled me to relate with the characters sufficiently to care about their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre that often presents individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for an army of the undead to consume, so it's a genuine surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and various household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a Korean drama with slightly dark comedy prior to taking an abrupt shift toward shocking territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides sufficient opportunity to immerse in the setting before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Source
This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the source for this contagious disease originates in a new sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. While we do learn a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the film devoted a little more time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a lethal potion that appears to contain a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this affliction produces on people proves utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's undead are quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a daring choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear quite realistic, and are practically certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
Even better than the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Of course, we see a few examples of dubious decision-making (like any any good undead film), however generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument is available rather than freezing like prey caught in lights as death approaches.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a pleasantly realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still clinging to resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they decide via telephone to regroup at a close spot. However, once Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel realistic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to push the idea that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes those instances when these characters express gratitude for each other seem much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep insight regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up scares. Yet these are successful scares, and since the film gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is an engaging and enjoyable
