Typically, I've had my fill of undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems largely depleted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Personal Development
Among this movie's strongest strengths is its superb pacing. It kicks off with a striking initial scene in which a peaceful family party is violently interrupted by a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual emerges proceeding attacking the attendees. This intense moment is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to see the family prior to the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient time to get to know its main characters before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—a clearly awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably caused a rift between the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and who loves playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. The family patriarch consists of her dad, who runs a popular natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two things: his business and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is extremely strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so invested with this family's dynamics and their personal conflicts that I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—something that could sound like a drawback, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a significant portion of the film to showing viewers the identity of every family member represents, plus the ways they add to the overall turmoil. This focus on conflicting personalities allowed me to relate to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—a rare feat for this style that often introduces characters just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to consume, thus it's a genuine shock once events finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring slightly dark comedy prior to taking a sudden turn into "holy shit" territory. These early moments don't focus too heavily on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives enough opportunity to settle into its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
The film also offers a quite interesting reason regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Instead of an accidental lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. While we do learn a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted additional time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir that appears to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the lack of context, the effect this affliction produces on people is utterly repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also very realistic, and are practically certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
Even better than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, we see a few instances of questionable choices (as in typical zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a welcome realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for everything! cliché often seen in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still holding onto bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they decide over the phone to regroup at a close location. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been building for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to promote the notion that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals express appreciation toward one another feel much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound message regarding relatives or community, either. Instead, it's mostly serving up frights. But they're effective scares, and because the film gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and entertaining
