Generally speaking, I've had my fill of zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre seems largely depleted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. But, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Character Growth
One of the film's greatest strengths lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off using a striking initial scene where a calm family gathering is violently interrupted by a vehicle plows right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very zombie-like stranger emerges proceeding attacking the partygoers. This dramatic scene is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe this household before the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually allows the audience enough time to become acquainted with the primary characters before the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—a clearly awkward situation. This has predictably led to a rift among the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and who loves gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. This household head consists of her dad, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on only two aspects: his business and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed with this household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost overlooked I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a negative, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film depicting us who each family member is, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting traits enabled me to relate with the characters enough to care about their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently introduces characters just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of zombies to consume, thus it's a genuine surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring slightly dark comedy prior to taking an abrupt shift toward shocking ground. These introductory moments don't focus too heavily on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to settle into its world before everything gets upended.
Original Infection Source
This movie also offers a fairly interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source for this infectious condition originates in a recent sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. While we do learn something regarding how it started, I wish the film devoted a little more focus on how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a lethal elixir that appears to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the limited context, the impact this condition produces on humans proves absolutely repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and they're almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of dubious choices (like any typical undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and sharp. They also don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights as death nears.
Realistic Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord when people begin transforming to the undead, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for everything! cliché often seen in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes loves her family and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they decide via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been building for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments where these individuals do show gratitude for each other seem much more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound insight about family or community, as well. Instead, it's mostly serving up scares. But they're successful frights, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result is an engaging and entertaining
