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Typically, I've grown tired of zombie movies. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre seems mostly depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for months. However, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations and proved quite entertaining.

Superb Rhythm and Personal Development

Among this movie's strongest strengths is its excellent rhythm. It begins using a memorable opening sequence in which a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted when a vehicle crashes into the guest area. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a look back, allowing us to see this household before the tragedy occurred.

In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough time to become acquainted with its main personalities before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a former best friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—a clearly awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably led to a rift among the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and he loves playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. The family head consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two aspects: his work and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely strained.

Engaged in the Conflict

I became so engrossed in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of the film to showing us who each relative represents, plus the ways they add to the general turmoil. This focus on clashing personalities enabled the audience to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat for this style that often presents individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, disposable victims for an army of the undead to consume, so it's a real surprise when things finally deteriorate.

Reminiscent of Parasite

The opening scenes of the party and various family interactions actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to making an abrupt turn toward shocking territory. These early moments aren't centered too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient opportunity to immerse in the setting prior to it gets turned upside down.

Original Zombification Source

The film additionally presents a fairly interesting reason regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the source for this contagious disease stems from a recent sample from Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. Although some background is provided a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the movie had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a deadly elixir which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the limited context, the impact this condition produces on humans is absolutely repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also quite convincing, and are almost guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.

Resourceful Personalities

More impressive than the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of dubious decision-making (like any typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and sharp. They also aren't afraid to strike an undead in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with the nearest heavy object they find instead of standing still like prey caught in lights as death approaches.

Believable Familial Discord

The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord once individuals start turning into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for everything! cliché often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still holding onto bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they decide via telephone to regroup at a nearby location. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem authentic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters do show gratitude for each other seem much more sincere.

Stereotypical Conclusion

In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep message regarding relatives or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're effective frights, and since the film gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves a captivating and entertaining