For the most part, I've had my fill of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category seems mostly exhausted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. But, Netflix's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out quite enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Character Development
One of this movie's strongest strengths is its excellent rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable opening sequence in which a peaceful family party is violently disrupted by a van crashes right into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like stranger stumbles out and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense moment is then followed by a flashback, giving viewers to see this household before the tragedy struck.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly gives the audience enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—a clearly awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured yet socially awkward, and who loves gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch consists of Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he seems focused on only two aspects: his work and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is incredibly strained.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so invested in the family's dynamics and their personal conflicts that I nearly forgot this was a scary movie—which might sound like a negative, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of the film depicting us the identity of every relative represents, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing traits allowed me to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon accomplishment for this style which frequently introduces individuals only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine surprise when things eventually go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and the multiple family interactions actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to making an abrupt turn into "holy shit" ground. These introductory moments don't focus as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough time to immerse in its world prior to it gets upended.
Unique Infection Source
This movie also offers a fairly intriguing reason for the source of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition stems from a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. While some background is provided a bit about how it started, I wish the film devoted additional focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to contain an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the limited background, the impact this affliction produces on people proves utterly repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear very realistic, and they're practically certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
Even better than the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see a few instances of questionable choices (as in typical undead film), but generally, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and sharp. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with whatever heavy object they find rather than standing still like a deer in headlights as death approaches.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord when people begin transforming to the undead, which was a welcome realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for everything! cliché often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes loves her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains holding onto resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they decide via telephone to meet up at a nearby location. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try to push the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This makes the moments when these characters express appreciation for each other seem much more sincere.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts 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 delivering frights. But they're effective frights, and since the movie allows every personality enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
