Generally speaking, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre seems mostly depleted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. But, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Personal Development
One of this movie's strongest assets lies in the excellent rhythm. It begins with a memorable opening sequence where a calm family gathering gets suddenly disrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking stranger emerges and begins attacking the attendees. This intense scene is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe this household before the disaster struck.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually allows the audience sufficient time to get to know the primary characters before the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a former best friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable situation. This has predictably caused a rift between Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured yet socially awkward, and who enjoys gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on Nes. This household head consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known natural medicine company named Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two things: his work and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so engrossed with this family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama that I almost overlooked this was a horror film—which might seem like a negative, but in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of the film to showing viewers who each relative represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This focus on clashing traits allowed the audience to connect with the characters enough to care about their fate—an uncommon feat for this style which frequently presents individuals just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to consume, so it's a genuine shock once events eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a Korean drama with slightly dark humor prior to making a sudden shift toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives sufficient time to settle into the setting before it gets upended.
Original Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a quite intriguing reason regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a new batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. Although some background is provided something regarding how it started, I wish the film had spent a little more time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion that appears to include a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the limited background, the impact this condition produces on people is utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and they're practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few examples of dubious decision-making (like any typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family are inventive and sharp. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with the nearest heavy object they find rather than standing still like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict when people start turning into zombies, this proved a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes loves her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they agree via telephone to regroup at a close location. But when Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been building for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to promote the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances when these characters express gratitude toward one another seem far more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight about family or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering scares. Yet these are effective frights, and since the movie gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome is a captivating and enjoyable
