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For the most part, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre seems largely depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. But, Netflix's new Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations and proved remarkably enjoyable.

Impressive Rhythm and Character Development

Among the film's greatest strengths lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off with a memorable opening sequence in which a peaceful family party gets suddenly interrupted by a vehicle crashes into the guest area. Out of the van, a very zombie-like stranger emerges and begins assaulting the attendees. This intense moment is then followed by a look back, allowing us to observe the family prior to the tragedy struck.

Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient opportunity to get to know the primary characters before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a former close friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—an obviously awkward situation. This has understandably led to a rift between Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and he enjoys playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on Nes. This household head consists of Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he seems focused on only two things: his business and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is incredibly strained.

Engaged in the Conflict

I found myself so invested in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly overlooked this was a scary movie—something that could sound like a negative, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every family member represents, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed me to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre which frequently introduces characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to devour, so it's a genuine surprise once events eventually deteriorate.

Reminiscent of Parasite

The initial sequences of the party and the multiple family interactions in fact evoke the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy prior to taking an abrupt turn toward shocking territory. These early moments don't focus as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough opportunity to immerse in the setting prior to everything gets turned upside down.

Original Infection Source

The film also offers a fairly interesting reason for the source of the spreading zombification. Instead of a unintended lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the cause for this contagious disease originates in a recent batch from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film devoted a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to creating a deadly elixir that appears to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the lack of background, the impact this affliction has on humans is utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and are almost guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.

Capable Characters

More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, we see some examples of questionable decision-making (like any any good undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with whatever heavy object is available instead of freezing like a deer in headlights while danger nears.

Realistic Familial Discord

The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord when people begin transforming to the undead, which was a welcome authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they agree over the phone to meet up at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been building for years. Nes is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances where these individuals do show appreciation toward one another seem far more genuine.

Stereotypical Ending

In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound insight regarding relatives or society, either. Rather, it's mostly delivering frights. Yet these are successful frights, and since the film allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and entertaining