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For the most part, I've grown tired of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems mostly exhausted 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, succeeded in defy my expectations and proved quite entertaining.

Superb Pacing and Personal Development

Among the film's greatest assets lies in the excellent pacing. It begins using a memorable opening sequence where a calm family gathering is violently disrupted when a van crashes right into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual emerges and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense scene is then succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to see this household before the tragedy occurred.

Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough opportunity to get to know its main characters before the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—an obviously awkward situation. Naturally, this has predictably led to a falling out among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured but a bit inept socially, and who enjoys gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on Nes. This household patriarch is Nes' father, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two aspects: his work and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves incredibly strained.

Invested in the Conflict

I became so invested with this family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts to the point I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a negative, but in the end worked well. The Elixir spends a significant amount of the film to showing us the identity of every family member is, plus the ways they add to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled the audience to relate with the characters enough to care about their outcome—an uncommon feat in a genre that often presents individuals just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to devour, so it's a genuine shock once events finally go wrong.

Evocative of Parasite

The opening sequences from the gathering and various family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to making an abrupt turn into "holy shit" ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient opportunity to immerse in the setting prior to it gets turned upside down.

Original Infection Origin

The film also offers a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition stems from a recent batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. While we do learn something regarding how it started, I wish the movie had spent a little more time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir which seems to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the limited background, the effect this affliction produces on people proves utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a daring decision, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear quite realistic, and they're almost guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.

Capable Characters

More impressive than the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of dubious choices (like any any good zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her family are inventive and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick an undead in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like a deer in headlights as death approaches.

Realistic Familial Strike

The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they decide over the phone to meet up at a close location. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to promote the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances when these characters express appreciation toward one another seem far more sincere.

Stereotypical Ending

In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message regarding relatives or society, either. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are successful frights, and since the movie allows every personality sufficient space to develop and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable