Generally speaking, I've grown tired of zombie movies. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre seems largely depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for months. However, Netflix's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Character Development
Among the film's greatest strengths lies in the excellent pacing. It begins using a memorable initial scene where a peaceful family party gets suddenly interrupted when a van plows right into the guest area. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding attacking the attendees. This intense moment is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe this household prior to the disaster occurred.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough opportunity to get to know the primary personalities before the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother whose former best friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably led to a rift between Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured but a bit inept socially, and he enjoys playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. The family head is her dad, who runs a popular natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and who seems to care about just two things: his work and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves extremely tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so engrossed in the household's issues and their personal conflicts that I almost forgot I was watching a scary movie—something that could sound like a negative, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of the film depicting viewers who each family member represents, plus the ways they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits allowed me to relate with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment in a genre which frequently presents characters only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to devour, so it's a real shock when things finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy prior to taking an abrupt turn toward shocking ground. These introductory moments aren't centered too heavily on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to settle into the setting before everything gets upended.
Unique Infection Source
The film also offers a fairly interesting reason regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Instead of a unintended lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition originates in a new sample from Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. While we do learn a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the movie had spent additional time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to creating a lethal potion which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of context, the effect this affliction produces on humans proves utterly disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and they're practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
Even better than the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, we see some examples of dubious choices (like any any good undead film), however generally, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and sharp. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with the nearest heavy object they find rather than standing still like a deer caught in lights as death nears.
Realistic Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a pleasantly realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains clinging to resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they decide via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try to promote the idea that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals express appreciation for each other seem far more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep message regarding relatives or community, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up scares. But they're successful frights, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
