Typically, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre feels mostly exhausted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. But, Netflix's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Development
Among this movie's strongest assets is its excellent rhythm. It begins using a memorable opening sequence in which a calm family party gets suddenly interrupted by a vehicle crashes right into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking stranger emerges and begins attacking the attendees. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to observe this household before the disaster struck.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly gives viewers enough time to become acquainted with its main personalities prior to the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably led to a falling out between the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted but socially awkward, and he enjoys gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to her. This household head consists of her dad, who runs a well-known natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on just two aspects: his business and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is extremely tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama that I nearly forgot this was a horror film—something that could seem like a drawback, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film depicting us the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled me to connect to the personalities enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment in a genre that often presents individuals just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a genuine surprise when things eventually go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and the multiple family interactions actually evoke the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to making an abrupt shift toward shocking territory. These introductory moments don't focus as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides enough opportunity to immerse in its world prior to it gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a quite intriguing reason regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause for this infectious condition stems from a new sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, I wish the movie devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to creating a deadly elixir that appears to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the lack of background, the impact this condition produces on people proves utterly disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a bold choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also quite convincing, and they're almost guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
More impressive compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are some instances of questionable choices (like any typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and sharp. They also don't hesitate to strike an undead in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument is available rather than standing still like prey caught in lights as death approaches.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict when people start turning to the undead, which was a welcome realistic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still holding onto resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—feel authentic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to push the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments where these individuals express appreciation for each other feel far more genuine.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep message regarding relatives or society, as well. Instead, it's mostly serving up scares. But they're successful scares, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and entertaining
