Typically, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category feels largely depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. However, Netflix's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Development
One of the film's greatest assets is its superb pacing. It begins with a memorable initial scene in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly disrupted by a vehicle crashes into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual emerges proceeding attacking the partygoers. This dramatic moment is then succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to see the family prior to the disaster struck.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough time to get to know the primary characters before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a married mother whose former close friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably led to a falling out between Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured yet socially awkward, and he loves playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. This household head is Nes' father, the owner of a popular natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed in the household's issues and their personal conflicts that I nearly overlooked this was a horror film—something that could seem like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime to showing viewers who each relative represents, and how they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled me to relate with the characters sufficiently to care about their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style that often presents characters just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a genuine surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and various family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a K-Drama with slightly dark humor prior to making a sudden shift toward shocking ground. These early moments don't focus too heavily on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives enough time to immerse in its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a fairly interesting reason for the source of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the cause for this infectious condition stems from a recent batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. Although some background is provided a bit about how it started, I wish the movie devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of context, the impact this affliction produces on humans proves utterly disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also very convincing, and they're almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
More impressive than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see some examples of questionable decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to kick an undead in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with whatever heavy object they find instead of standing still like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord once individuals begin transforming into zombies, which was a pleasantly realistic 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!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they decide over the phone to meet up at a nearby location. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem authentic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals do show appreciation toward one another feel much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep message about family or community, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up frights. Yet these are effective frights, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
