The streaming giant's Startling New Zombie Flick Breathes New Life into a Overused Style

Typically, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, this category seems mostly depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. But, the platform's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out quite enjoyable.

Superb Pacing and Character Growth

One of this movie's strongest assets is its superb rhythm. It begins using a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly interrupted when a van plows right into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking stranger stumbles out and begins assaulting the attendees. This intense scene is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to see the family before the disaster struck.

Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has understandably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and who loves gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on Nes. This household head consists of her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two aspects: his business and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is extremely strained.

Engaged in the Drama

I found myself so invested in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama that I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—which might sound like a negative, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of its runtime to showing viewers the identity of every family member is, and how they add to the general turmoil. This focus on clashing traits enabled me to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment in a genre which frequently presents individuals only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for an army of the undead to consume, so it's a genuine surprise once events finally deteriorate.

Reminiscent of Parasite

The initial sequences of the party and the multiple family interactions actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a Korean drama with slightly dark humor before taking an abrupt shift into "holy shit" ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough time to settle into its world prior to everything gets upended.

Unique Zombification Origin

This movie also offers a fairly interesting reason regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the cause for this contagious disease originates in a recent batch from Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. Although we do learn a bit about how it started, I wish the film had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to creating a deadly potion that appears to include a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the lack of context, the effect this affliction has on people is utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear very convincing, and are almost guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.

Capable Characters

More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are some examples of questionable choices (like any any good zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and sharp. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with whatever heavy object is available instead of freezing like prey in headlights while danger approaches.

Believable Familial Discord

The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict when people start turning into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for everything! trope frequently used in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still holding onto bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they agree over the phone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been building for years. Nes is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable because the film 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 feel much more sincere.

Predictable Ending

Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound insight about family or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering scares. Yet these are effective frights, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result proves a captivating and entertaining