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For the most part, I'm over undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category feels largely exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out remarkably entertaining.

Excellent Rhythm and Personal Development

One of this movie's strongest strengths is its superb rhythm. It kicks off with a memorable initial scene in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly disrupted when a vehicle plows right into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like individual stumbles out proceeding attacking the partygoers. This intense scene is then followed by a flashback, allowing us to observe the family before the tragedy struck.

In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough time to get to know its main personalities prior to the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former best friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably led to a falling out among Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who enjoys playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on Nes. This household head consists of Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two aspects: his work and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is incredibly tense.

Invested in the Conflict

I found myself so engrossed in the household's issues and their personal conflicts to the point I nearly forgot this was a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a significant portion of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every relative is, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled the audience to relate with the characters sufficiently to care about their fate—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre that often introduces individuals just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine shock when things eventually go wrong.

Evocative of Parasite

The opening scenes of the party and various family interactions actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor before taking a sudden turn toward shocking ground. These early moments don't focus as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives sufficient opportunity to immerse in its world before everything gets turned upside down.

Original Infection Source

The film also offers a quite interesting reason regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Instead of a unintended lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a new batch from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted additional focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a lethal potion that appears to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the limited background, the effect this condition has on people is utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's undead are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a bold decision, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also very realistic, and are almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.

Capable Personalities

More impressive compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see a few examples of dubious decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick an undead in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument is available rather than standing still like prey in headlights while danger nears.

Realistic Familial Discord

The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict when people start turning into zombies, this proved a welcome authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby location. But when Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes the moments when these characters express appreciation for each other feel far more genuine.

Predictable Ending

In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound insight about family or society, either. Instead, it's primarily delivering scares. But they're successful scares, and because the movie gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves a captivating and enjoyable