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Generally speaking, I'm over apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, this category seems largely depleted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. But, Netflix's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out quite enjoyable.

Superb Rhythm and Character Growth

One of this movie's greatest strengths is its excellent rhythm. It begins with a memorable opening sequence in which a peaceful family party is violently interrupted when a vehicle plows into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking individual emerges and begins attacking the attendees. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a look back, allowing us to observe the family before the disaster struck.

Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary characters before the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex close friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable situation. This has understandably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured but a bit inept socially, and who enjoys gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. This household patriarch consists of Nes' father, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he appears to care about only two things: his business and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves extremely tense.

Invested in the Drama

I found myself so invested with this family's dynamics and their personal conflicts to the point I nearly overlooked this was a scary movie—something that could sound like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of its runtime depicting viewers who each relative represents, and how they add to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed the audience to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre that often introduces individuals just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to consume, so it's a genuine shock when things eventually deteriorate.

Reminiscent of Parasite

The opening scenes of the party and the multiple family interactions actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a K-Drama with slightly dark comedy before making a sudden shift toward "holy shit" territory. These early moments aren't centered too heavily on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides sufficient opportunity to settle into the setting prior to it gets upended.

Unique Infection Source

This movie additionally presents a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a new sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. Although some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the film had spent additional time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir that appears to include an extremely infectious virus. Despite the limited context, the effect this condition has on people proves absolutely repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a bold choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear quite convincing, and are almost guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.

Resourceful Characters

More impressive compared to the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see some instances of questionable decision-making (like any typical undead film), but generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with the nearest heavy object they find rather than standing still like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.

Believable Family Discord

The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people begin transforming to the undead, this proved a welcome authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for everything! cliché frequently used in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they agree over the phone to regroup at a nearby location. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes those instances when these characters do show gratitude toward one another seem much more sincere.

Predictable Ending

In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound insight about family or community, either. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're effective scares, and because the film gives each character sufficient space to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result proves a captivating and entertaining