Generally speaking, I've had my fill of zombie movies. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre seems largely depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. However, Netflix's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out quite entertaining.
Superb Pacing and Personal Growth
Among this movie's greatest assets is its excellent rhythm. It begins with a striking opening sequence in which a calm family party is violently interrupted by a van plows into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding attacking the partygoers. This intense scene is then succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to observe the family prior to the disaster occurred.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary personalities prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably led to a falling out between Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who enjoys gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on her. This household patriarch consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who seems to care about only two things: his work and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so invested with this household's issues and their personal conflicts that I almost overlooked I was watching a scary movie—something that could sound like a drawback, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of the film depicting viewers who each relative is, plus the ways they contribute to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed me to relate with the characters enough to care about their fate—an uncommon feat for this style that often presents characters just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to consume, thus it's a genuine surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a K-Drama with slightly dark humor before making a sudden turn into "holy shit" territory. These early scenes don't focus as much on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives enough time to settle into the setting before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Source
The film also offers a quite intriguing reason regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease originates in a new sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. Although we do learn something regarding its origins, I wish the film had spent a little more focus on how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a deadly potion which seems to contain a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of context, the impact this condition produces on humans is utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
Even better compared to the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see a few examples of dubious choices (as in any good zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and sharp. They also don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument is available rather than standing still like a deer in headlights while danger nears.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—feel realistic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to promote the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals express gratitude for each other feel much more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound insight regarding relatives or community, as well. Instead, it's mostly serving up frights. But they're successful scares, and because the movie gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome is a captivating and enjoyable
