For the most part, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre seems largely depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for some time. But, Netflix's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.
Excellent Rhythm and Personal Development
One of this movie's greatest assets is its superb pacing. It begins using a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family party gets suddenly interrupted by a van crashes into the guest area. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger emerges proceeding attacking the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to see this household before the tragedy occurred.
Unlike 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 wife and mother whose ex close friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably caused a falling out between the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and who loves gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on Nes. This household head is her dad, who runs a well-known natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and he appears to care about only two things: his business and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is extremely tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a negative, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits allowed me to relate with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat in a genre that often introduces characters just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine shock when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various family interactions in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a K-Drama with slightly dark comedy before taking a sudden shift into shocking ground. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to immerse in the setting before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing reason for the source of the spreading zombification. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. While some background is provided a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the movie had spent additional time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of background, the effect this affliction produces on people is utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a bold choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear quite convincing, and are practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
Even better than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, we see a few instances of questionable choices (like any any good undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to strike an undead in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available instead of standing still like prey in headlights as death nears.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict when people start turning into zombies, this proved a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for everything! cliché often seen in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and relatable because the film doesn't try to promote the notion that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals express appreciation for each other seem far more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound insight about family or community, either. Rather, it's primarily delivering scares. But they're successful scares, and because the film allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and entertaining
