For the most part, I've had my fill of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre feels largely exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for some time. But, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated and proved quite entertaining.
Excellent Pacing and Personal Development
One of this movie's strongest assets lies in the excellent rhythm. It begins with a memorable opening sequence in which a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly interrupted when a vehicle plows into the guest area. Out of the van, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding attacking the attendees. This dramatic scene is immediately succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to see the family before the disaster struck.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir truly allows viewers enough time to get to know the primary personalities prior to the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a married mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—a clearly awkward dynamic. This has understandably led to a falling out between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and he loves playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on her. The family head is her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and who appears to care about only two things: his work and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so invested in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama that I almost forgot this was a scary movie—something that could seem like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of the film to showing us the identity of every family member is, plus the ways they add to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting personalities allowed the audience to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare feat in a genre that often presents individuals just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of zombies to consume, so it's a genuine shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor prior to making an abrupt shift into "holy shit" ground. These early moments don't focus as much on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough time to settle into its world before it gets upended.
Unique Zombification Source
The film additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition originates in a new sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding its origins, I wish the film devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the limited background, the effect this affliction produces on people is utterly repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's undead are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring choice, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear quite realistic, and they're practically guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
More impressive than the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see some instances of questionable choices (as in typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available rather than standing still like a deer in headlights while danger nears.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord once individuals start turning into zombies, this proved a welcome realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for everything! trope frequently used in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still clinging to resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close spot. However, once Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel authentic and understandable because the film doesn't try to promote the idea that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments when these characters express gratitude toward one another seem much more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep insight regarding relatives or society, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up scares. But they're successful frights, and because the movie allows every personality sufficient space to grow and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the outcome is a captivating and enjoyable
