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Typically, I've had my fill of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category feels largely depleted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.

Superb Rhythm and Character Growth

Among the film's greatest strengths is its excellent pacing. It kicks off with a striking opening sequence in which a calm family party is violently disrupted by a van plows right into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like individual emerges proceeding attacking the partygoers. This intense scene is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe this household prior to the tragedy occurred.

In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir actually allows the audience sufficient time to get to know its main characters before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a married mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who enjoys gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. This household head consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and who appears focused on just two aspects: his business and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves extremely tense.

Invested in the Drama

I found myself so invested with this family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could sound like a drawback, but in the end worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of the film to showing viewers the identity of every relative represents, plus the ways they add to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting personalities enabled the audience to relate to the personalities enough to care about their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre which frequently introduces individuals just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a real shock once events eventually go wrong.

Reminiscent of Parasite

The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges in fact evoke the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a K-Drama with slightly dark humor before taking an abrupt shift toward "holy shit" territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough time to settle into its world before it gets turned upside down.

Unique Infection Source

The film also offers a quite interesting reason regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a recent sample of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although some background is provided something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film devoted additional time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the limited context, the impact this condition has on humans proves utterly disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite convincing, and are almost certain to trigger one's trypophobia.

Resourceful Personalities

More impressive than the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see some examples of dubious choices (as in any good undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to kick an undead in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available rather than standing still like a deer caught in lights as death nears.

Believable Familial Strike

The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord when people begin transforming into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains holding onto resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they decide over the phone to meet up at a nearby location. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and relatable because the film doesn't try to push the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals express appreciation for each other seem much more genuine.

Predictable Ending

Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound message about family or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering scares. Yet these are effective frights, and since the film allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves a captivating and entertaining