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Typically, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre seems mostly depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. But, Netflix's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated and proved quite entertaining.

Impressive Rhythm and Personal Development

One of the film's strongest assets lies in the superb rhythm. It begins with a memorable opening sequence where a calm family gathering gets suddenly disrupted when a vehicle crashes into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual emerges proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then followed by a flashback, allowing us to observe the family before the disaster occurred.

Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough time to become acquainted with its main personalities prior to the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose ex close friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably led to a rift between Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and who loves gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. This household head is her dad, the owner of a well-known natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and who appears to care about just two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is extremely tense.

Invested in the Conflict

I became so engrossed with this family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama that I almost forgot I was watching a horror film—which might sound like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of its runtime depicting viewers who each family member represents, plus the ways they add to the overall turmoil. This focus on conflicting traits enabled me to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat in a genre that often introduces individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to devour, thus it's a real shock once events eventually deteriorate.

Reminiscent of Parasite

The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor prior to making a sudden shift toward "holy shit" ground. These early scenes don't focus too heavily on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to immerse in the setting before it gets turned upside down.

Unique Zombification Source

The film additionally presents a quite intriguing reason regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a recent batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. While some background is provided a bit about how it started, I wish the movie devoted a little more focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to creating a deadly elixir which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of context, the impact this affliction has on people is utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a daring choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also quite realistic, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.

Resourceful Characters

Even better compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are a few examples of questionable decision-making (like any typical zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike an undead in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument they find instead of standing still like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.

Believable Family Discord

The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord when people start turning to the undead, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still clinging to bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. 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 an immense level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try to push the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This causes those instances when these characters do show gratitude for each other feel much more sincere.

Predictable Conclusion

Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message regarding relatives or community, as well. Instead, it's mostly serving up scares. But they're effective frights, and because the movie gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable