Typically, I've had my fill of zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre feels mostly exhausted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated turning out quite enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Character Growth
One of this movie's greatest assets is its superb pacing. It kicks off using a striking initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly disrupted by a van crashes into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like stranger emerges and begins attacking the partygoers. This dramatic scene is immediately succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to see this household before the tragedy struck.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a married mother with a former close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—an obviously awkward situation. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out among the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and who enjoys gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. The family head is Nes' father, the owner of a well-known natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is extremely tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so invested in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a negative, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir spends a significant portion of its runtime depicting viewers who each family member is, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on clashing personalities allowed me to connect to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment in a genre which frequently introduces individuals just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine shock once events finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and the multiple household exchanges in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking a sudden shift toward shocking ground. These early scenes aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient time to settle into the setting before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting reason for the source of the contagious zombification. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the cause for this contagious disease originates in a recent batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. Although some background is provided something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film had spent a little more time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to include a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the lack of context, the effect this condition produces on people is utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's undead are quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a daring choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also very realistic, and are almost certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
More impressive compared to the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see a few instances of dubious choices (like any any good zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and sharp. They also aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like prey in headlights as death nears.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord when people start turning to the undead, this proved a welcome authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for everything! cliché often seen in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they agree over the phone to meet up at a close spot. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—feel authentic and understandable because the film doesn't try to promote the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments when these characters express appreciation toward one another feel much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep insight regarding relatives or society, either. Rather, it's mostly delivering frights. Yet these are successful scares, and because the movie gives each character sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
