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Typically, I've grown tired of undead films. While favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre seems largely depleted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for months. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.

Impressive Rhythm and Character Growth

One of this movie's greatest assets lies in the excellent rhythm. It begins using a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly disrupted by a van plows into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out and begins assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe the family before the tragedy struck.

Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly gives the audience enough time to get to know its main personalities prior to the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—a clearly awkward dynamic. This has understandably caused a falling out between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and he enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. The family head is Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he appears focused on just two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely tense.

Engaged in the Conflict

I became so invested with this family's dynamics and their personal conflicts to the point I almost overlooked this was a horror film—which might sound like a negative, but in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of the film to showing us who each family member represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on conflicting personalities enabled me to relate to the personalities enough to care about their fate—an uncommon accomplishment for this style which frequently introduces characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine surprise when things eventually go wrong.

Reminiscent of Parasite

The opening sequences from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a Korean drama with slightly dark humor prior to making a sudden turn into shocking territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to immerse in the setting before it gets upended.

Unique Zombification Source

This movie additionally presents a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition stems from a new sample from Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding its origins, I wish the film devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to creating a lethal elixir that appears to contain a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited background, the impact this condition produces on humans proves utterly disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a bold choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear very realistic, and they're practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.

Capable Personalities

Even better compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few examples of dubious choices (as in typical undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her family are inventive and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like a deer caught in lights as death nears.

Realistic Familial Strike

The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict when people begin transforming to the undead, which was a pleasantly realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes loves her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains holding onto bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they decide via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been building for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This causes those instances where these individuals do show gratitude toward one another seem much more sincere.

Predictable Ending

In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep message regarding relatives or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are successful scares, and since the movie gives each character enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result is an engaging and entertaining