For the most part, I've grown tired of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category feels largely depleted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for months. However, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.
Impressive Pacing and Character Growth
One of this movie's strongest strengths is its superb rhythm. It begins using a memorable opening sequence where a calm family gathering gets suddenly interrupted when a van crashes right into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out and begins assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then followed by a look back, allowing us to observe the family before the tragedy occurred.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually gives the audience sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary characters before the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex best friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—an obviously awkward situation. Naturally, this has predictably led to a rift between Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and who loves gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on Nes. This household head is Nes' father, the owner of a well-known natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on just two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is incredibly strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so invested in the family's dynamics and their personal conflicts that I almost forgot I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a negative, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits enabled the audience to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon accomplishment for this style which frequently presents characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to devour, so it's a real shock when things finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and various family interactions in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a Korean drama with slightly dark humor prior to taking a sudden shift into "holy shit" ground. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides sufficient time to immerse in its world prior to it gets upended.
Original Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause for this contagious disease stems from a recent batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. Although we do learn a bit about how it started, I wish the film had spent a little more time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to creating a lethal potion which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this affliction has on people proves absolutely disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's undead are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very realistic, and are almost guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better than the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are some examples of questionable decision-making (like any typical zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her family are inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with whatever blunt instrument they find rather than freezing like prey caught in lights while danger nears.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, this proved a pleasantly realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes loves her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains holding onto bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try to promote the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters do show appreciation toward one another feel much more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep insight about family or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering scares. But they're effective scares, and since the film gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
