Typically, I'm over undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, this category feels largely exhausted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated and proved remarkably entertaining.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Growth
Among this movie's greatest assets lies in the superb pacing. It begins using a memorable opening sequence where a calm family gathering gets suddenly interrupted when a van crashes right into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking individual emerges proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe the family before the disaster occurred.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly allows viewers enough time to get to know its main personalities prior to the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a married mother with a former best friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and who enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on Nes. This household patriarch is Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two aspects: his work and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics and their personal conflicts to the point I almost forgot I was watching a scary movie—something that could seem like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime depicting us who each relative is, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting traits enabled me to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre which frequently introduces individuals only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to devour, thus it's a genuine shock when things finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and the multiple family interactions in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a K-Drama with slightly dark humor prior to making an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" territory. These early moments aren't centered too heavily on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides enough time to immerse in the setting prior to everything gets upended.
Unique Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting reason for the source of the spreading zombification. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this contagious disease stems from a new batch from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the movie had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a lethal potion which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the lack of context, the effect this affliction has on humans is absolutely repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also quite convincing, and they're practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive compared to the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see a few instances of questionable decision-making (like any typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with the nearest heavy object is available rather than freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord when people begin transforming to the undead, this proved a welcome realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for everything! cliché often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still clinging to bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they decide over the phone to meet up at a nearby location. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been building for years. Nes is not flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try to push the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments when these characters express gratitude for each other feel much more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
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 offering up any deep message about family or society, as well. Instead, it's mostly delivering frights. But they're successful frights, and because the film allows every personality enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the result proves a captivating and enjoyable
