For the most part, I've had my fill of zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre seems largely depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations turning out quite enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Personal Development
Among the film's greatest strengths lies in the superb pacing. It begins with a memorable initial scene where a calm family party gets suddenly disrupted by a vehicle plows into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual emerges and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense scene is then succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to see the family before the tragedy struck.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters before the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former best friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably caused a rift between the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted but socially awkward, and he loves gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to her. The family patriarch is her dad, the owner of a well-known natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is extremely tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so engrossed with this household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost overlooked this was a horror film—something that could sound like a negative, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of its runtime to showing viewers who each family member represents, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits enabled the audience to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment in a genre which frequently introduces characters just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to consume, so it's a real shock once events eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and various family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring slightly dark comedy before making a sudden turn into "holy shit" ground. These introductory scenes don't focus too heavily on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides enough time to settle into its world before everything gets upended.
Original Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source of this contagious disease originates in a new sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the film had spent additional time on how Wani Waras went from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal elixir which seems to include an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the limited background, the effect this affliction produces on people is utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also quite convincing, and are almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
More impressive compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are some examples of questionable decision-making (as in any good undead film), but generally, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument is available rather than standing still like a deer in headlights as death approaches.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord once individuals start turning to the undead, this proved a pleasantly authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains clinging to resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide over the phone to regroup at a nearby location. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly 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 notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This causes those instances where these individuals express gratitude toward one another seem far more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message about family or community, as well. Instead, it's mostly delivering scares. Yet these are effective scares, and since the movie gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable
