Netflix's Unexpected New Zombie Flick Injects Fresh Air into a Overused Genre

Typically, I've had my fill of zombie movies. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre seems largely depleted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. But, Netflix's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated and proved quite enjoyable.

Impressive Pacing and Personal Development

Among this movie's greatest strengths lies in the excellent pacing. It begins with a memorable opening sequence where a calm family gathering gets suddenly disrupted when a van crashes right into the guest area. Out of the van, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out and begins attacking the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to see the family prior to the tragedy struck.

Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient opportunity to get to know the primary characters before the chaos begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably caused a falling out among the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and he loves gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. This household head is her dad, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he seems focused on just two things: his business and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is extremely tense.

Invested in the Conflict

I found myself so invested with this family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could sound like a negative, but in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime depicting viewers who each relative is, and how they add to the general turmoil. This focus on clashing traits enabled the audience to connect to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat for this style that often introduces individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine surprise when things eventually deteriorate.

Evocative of Parasite

The initial sequences of the party and various family interactions in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama with somewhat morbid humor prior to making a sudden turn into shocking ground. These early scenes aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives sufficient opportunity to immerse in the setting before everything gets upended.

Original Infection Origin

This movie also offers a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the cause of this contagious disease originates in a new sample from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. Although some background is provided something regarding how it started, I wish the movie devoted a little more time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion that appears to contain an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the lack of context, the effect this condition has on people proves absolutely disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear quite convincing, and they're almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.

Capable Characters

More impressive than the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see some examples of dubious decision-making (as in typical undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with whatever heavy object they find instead of freezing like prey in headlights as death approaches.

Believable Family Strike

The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a pleasantly realistic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for everything! trope often seen in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains holding onto resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they decide via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to push the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This makes the moments where these individuals express appreciation toward one another feel far more sincere.

Predictable Conclusion

Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound message about family or society, either. Rather, it's mostly delivering frights. But they're successful scares, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result is a captivating and entertaining