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Typically, I'm over undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre feels largely depleted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.

Superb Rhythm and Character Growth

Among this movie's strongest assets lies in the excellent rhythm. It begins with a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted by a van plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like stranger stumbles out proceeding attacking the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to observe this household before the disaster struck.

In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly allows viewers enough opportunity to become acquainted with its main characters prior to the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—a clearly awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably caused a rift among the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured but socially awkward, and who enjoys gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. The family head consists of Nes' father, the owner of a well-known natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two aspects: his work and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is incredibly strained.

Invested in the Drama

I found myself so engrossed with this family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot I was watching a horror film—something that could sound like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a significant portion of the film depicting viewers who each family member represents, and how they add to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed the audience to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat for this style that often introduces characters just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to devour, so it's a genuine surprise once events eventually deteriorate.

Evocative of Parasite

The initial scenes from the gathering and various household exchanges actually evoke the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy prior to taking an abrupt shift toward "holy shit" ground. These early scenes aren't centered too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides sufficient opportunity to immerse in the setting before it gets upended.

Original Zombification Source

This movie also offers a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this contagious disease stems from a new sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. Although some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted additional time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to producing a deadly elixir which seems to contain a highly contagious virus. Despite the limited context, the effect this affliction produces on humans proves utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear quite convincing, and they're practically certain to trigger one's trypophobia.

Capable Personalities

Even better compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some examples of dubious decision-making (like any any good zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and sharp. They also aren't afraid to strike an undead in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like prey in headlights as death approaches.

Believable Familial Discord

The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a welcome realistic deviation 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 end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree over the phone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building for years. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This causes the moments when these characters express gratitude for each other feel far more genuine.

Stereotypical Conclusion

Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep insight about family or community, either. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. Yet these are successful frights, and because the movie gives each character sufficient space to grow and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable