For the most part, I've had my fill of zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre feels largely depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out quite enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Development
Among the film's greatest strengths lies in the superb pacing. It begins using a memorable initial scene where a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly interrupted when a van plows into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger emerges and begins assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to see the family before the tragedy struck.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly gives the audience enough opportunity to get to know the primary characters prior to the carnage begins. There's Nes, a married mother whose former close friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. This has predictably caused a rift between Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and who loves gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on her. This household patriarch consists of Nes' father, the owner of a well-known natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and who seems to care about just two things: his business and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts that I nearly forgot this was a horror film—which might seem like a drawback, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of its runtime depicting us the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they add to the overall dysfunction. This focus on conflicting personalities allowed the audience to connect with the characters enough to care about their outcome—an uncommon feat in a genre that often presents individuals only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to consume, thus it's a real shock once events finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and various family interactions in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor prior to taking an abrupt shift toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to settle into the setting before it gets upended.
Unique Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Instead of an accidental lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the cause for this infectious condition originates in a new sample of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While we do learn something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film had spent additional time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the limited background, the effect this condition produces on humans proves utterly repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring decision, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and are almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see some examples of dubious choices (like any any good undead film), however generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights 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 deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes loves her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they agree over the phone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments when these characters express gratitude for each other seem much more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep message about family or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up scares. Yet these are successful scares, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome is a captivating and enjoyable
