For the most part, I've grown tired of zombie movies. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre seems largely exhausted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Development
Among the film's greatest strengths lies in the excellent pacing. It begins using a memorable opening sequence in which a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted by a van plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like individual emerges proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic scene is immediately followed by a look back, allowing us to see the family before the tragedy occurred.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly gives viewers sufficient time to get to know the primary characters before the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—a clearly awkward dynamic. This has predictably caused a falling out between the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and who loves playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. The family patriarch consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and he seems focused on just two aspects: his business and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is extremely tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot I was watching a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film to showing us who each family member represents, and how they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed the audience to relate with the characters sufficiently to care about their fate—an uncommon accomplishment for this style which frequently presents characters just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to devour, so it's a genuine shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and the multiple family interactions in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy before making an abrupt shift toward shocking ground. These introductory moments aren't centered too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient time to settle into the setting before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Origin
The film also offers a quite interesting reason for the source of the spreading transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the film had spent a little more focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Despite the lack of context, the effect this condition produces on humans is absolutely repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also very realistic, and they're almost certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
More impressive than the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some instances of dubious choices (as in typical undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives are inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick an undead in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with whatever heavy object they find instead of standing still like prey caught in lights while danger nears.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they decide over the phone to regroup at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been building over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—seem authentic and understandable because the film doesn't try to promote the idea that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals express appreciation toward one another seem far more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound message about family or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up scares. Yet these are effective frights, and since the film gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable
