Typically, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category seems largely exhausted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. But, Netflix's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated and proved quite enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Personal Growth
One of this movie's greatest strengths is its superb pacing. It begins with a memorable opening sequence where a calm family gathering gets suddenly interrupted when a van plows right into the guest area. Out of the van, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out and begins attacking the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a look back, allowing us to observe the family before the disaster struck.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient time to get to know its main personalities before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex best friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably led to a rift between Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he loves gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on her. The family patriarch consists of Nes' father, who runs a well-known natural medicine company named Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two things: his work and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed with this family's dynamics and their personal conflicts to the point I almost forgot this was a horror film—something that could sound like a negative, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of the film depicting us who each relative is, plus the ways they add to the overall turmoil. This focus on conflicting traits allowed me to connect to the personalities enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre that often presents characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, disposable victims for an army of the undead to devour, so it's a real shock once events eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges in fact evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama with somewhat morbid humor prior to making a sudden shift toward "holy shit" ground. These early moments aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient time to settle into its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a quite intriguing reason for the source of the spreading zombification. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a recent batch from Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. While we do learn a bit about how it started, I wish the film had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a deadly elixir that appears to contain a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited background, the impact this condition produces on humans is absolutely disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Of course, there are some instances of dubious decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to kick an undead in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with the nearest heavy object is available rather than freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord once individuals start turning into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they decide via telephone to meet up at a close location. But when Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem realistic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters express appreciation for each other seem much more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep message regarding relatives or society, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're effective scares, and since the movie allows every personality enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable
