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Typically, I've grown tired of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre seems mostly exhausted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. However, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated and proved remarkably entertaining.

Impressive Rhythm and Personal Growth

One of the film's greatest assets is its excellent pacing. It kicks off with a memorable opening sequence in which a calm family gathering is violently disrupted by a vehicle crashes into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a look back, giving viewers to observe this household prior to the tragedy struck.

In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough opportunity to get to know its main characters before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex best friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who loves gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. This household head consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two aspects: his business and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is incredibly strained.

Invested in the Drama

I became so engrossed with this household's issues along with their personal conflicts that I nearly overlooked this was a horror film—something that could sound like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of the film depicting us the identity of every family member is, and how they add to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities allowed me to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre which frequently introduces characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to devour, so it's a genuine shock when things eventually go wrong.

Reminiscent of Parasite

The opening sequences from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a Korean drama with somewhat morbid humor before making a sudden shift toward "holy shit" territory. These early scenes aren't centered too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still provides sufficient opportunity to settle into the setting before it gets turned upside down.

Original Zombification Origin

This movie also offers a quite interesting reason for the source of the spreading transformation. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the cause for this contagious disease stems from a new batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. While we do learn a bit about its origins, I wish the movie had spent additional focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a lethal elixir which seems to include an extremely infectious virus. Despite the lack of context, the impact this condition has on people proves utterly disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and are practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.

Resourceful Personalities

More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, we see some examples of dubious choices (as in typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to kick an undead in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with whatever heavy object is available instead of freezing like a deer in headlights as death approaches.

Believable Familial Strike

The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close spot. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters express gratitude toward one another feel far more genuine.

Stereotypical Conclusion

In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound insight regarding relatives or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up scares. Yet these are effective frights, and since the movie allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable