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Generally speaking, I'm over zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre feels mostly depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for months. However, Netflix's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated turning out quite entertaining.

Impressive Rhythm and Character Development

Among the film's greatest strengths lies in the superb rhythm. It begins with a memorable opening sequence in which a peaceful family party gets suddenly interrupted by a van crashes right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like stranger stumbles out proceeding attacking the attendees. This intense scene is immediately followed by a flashback, allowing us to observe this household before the disaster occurred.

Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough time to become acquainted with its main characters prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—a clearly awkward situation. This has understandably caused a rift among the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. The family head is Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and who seems to care about only two aspects: his business and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is extremely tense.

Engaged in the Conflict

I found myself so engrossed with this family's dynamics and their personal conflicts to the point I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film depicting us who each relative represents, plus the ways they add to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting personalities enabled the audience to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare feat for this style which frequently introduces individuals just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for an army of the undead to devour, so it's a real surprise once events finally deteriorate.

Evocative of Parasite

The opening sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama with slightly dark humor before making a sudden shift toward "holy shit" ground. These early moments don't focus too heavily on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives sufficient opportunity to immerse in its world before it gets upended.

Original Infection Origin

The film additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the source for this contagious disease originates in a recent sample of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. While we do learn something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the movie devoted a little more time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of background, the impact this affliction produces on humans is utterly repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear very convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.

Capable Personalities

More impressive compared to the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, there are some examples of dubious choices (as in typical undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to strike an undead in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with whatever heavy object is available rather than freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger nears.

Realistic Familial Discord

The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, which was a welcome realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for everything! cliché often seen in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still holding onto bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the idea that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments when these characters do show appreciation toward one another feel much more sincere.

Predictable Ending

In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep insight regarding relatives or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up scares. But they're successful frights, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome is an engaging and entertaining