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Generally speaking, I'm over zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre feels mostly depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations and proved quite entertaining.

Superb Pacing and Character Growth

One of this movie's strongest assets is its excellent pacing. It begins using a memorable initial scene where a calm family party gets suddenly interrupted when a vehicle plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding attacking the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a look back, allowing us to see the family before the tragedy occurred.

In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough time to become acquainted with the primary personalities prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. Naturally, this has understandably led to a rift between Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who loves playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately 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 seems focused on just two things: his work and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly strained.

Invested in the Conflict

I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts to the point I almost forgot this was a scary movie—something that could seem like a negative, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of its runtime depicting us the identity of every relative represents, plus the ways they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled me to connect to the personalities enough to care about their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style which frequently presents individuals only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to consume, so it's a real surprise when things eventually deteriorate.

Reminiscent of Parasite

The opening sequences from the gathering and various household exchanges actually evoke the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades as a Korean drama with somewhat morbid humor prior to taking a sudden turn toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives enough opportunity to settle into the setting prior to everything gets turned upside down.

Unique Zombification Origin

This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. While some background is provided a bit about how it started, I wish the movie devoted additional time on how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion which seems to contain a highly contagious virus. Despite the limited context, the effect this affliction has on humans proves utterly disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a daring choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and they're almost guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.

Capable Characters

Even better than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of questionable decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick an undead in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like a deer 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 pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and relatable because the film doesn't try to push the notion that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This makes the moments when these characters do show appreciation toward one another feel far more sincere.

Predictable Ending

In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep insight about family or community, either. Instead, it's primarily delivering scares. But they're effective scares, and because the film gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is a captivating and entertaining