Generally speaking, I've grown tired of zombie movies. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category seems mostly exhausted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. However, Netflix's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated and proved quite enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Development
One of the film's strongest strengths is its superb pacing. It kicks off with a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted when a van crashes right into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like stranger emerges and begins attacking the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to see this household before the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives the audience sufficient time to get to know the primary personalities before the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother whose ex best friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. This has predictably led to a falling out between Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who enjoys gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on her. This household head is Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and he appears to care about just two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves incredibly tense.
Invested in the Drama
I became so invested with this family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts that I nearly overlooked I was watching a scary movie—something that could seem like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime to showing us who each family member is, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting traits enabled me to connect with the characters enough to care about their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style which frequently presents characters just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to consume, thus it's a genuine surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and various family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to making an abrupt turn into shocking territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives sufficient time to settle into its world prior to everything gets upended.
Unique Infection Source
The film also offers a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. Although some background is provided a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the film devoted a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the limited background, the impact this condition has on humans is utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also very realistic, and they're practically certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, we see a few examples of dubious decision-making (like any typical undead film), but generally, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to kick an undead in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like prey in headlights as death nears.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord once individuals begin transforming to the undead, this proved a welcome authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been building for years. Nes is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances when these characters express appreciation for each other feel much more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound insight regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up frights. But they're effective scares, and because the movie gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
