For the most part, I've grown tired of zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre feels largely depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for some time. But, Netflix's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations and proved remarkably entertaining.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Development
One of this movie's greatest assets is its excellent rhythm. It kicks off with a striking initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly disrupted when a van crashes right into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking individual stumbles out and begins assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, allowing us to observe the family before the disaster occurred.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually allows the audience sufficient time to get to know its main characters prior to the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a former best friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has understandably led to a falling out between Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he enjoys gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on her. This household patriarch consists of Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he seems to care about just two aspects: his work and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is extremely strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so invested in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly overlooked this was a scary movie—which might seem like a negative, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of the film to showing us the identity of every family member is, plus the ways they add to the general turmoil. This focus on clashing traits allowed me to connect to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat for this style that often presents characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, disposable victims for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a real shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and the multiple family interactions in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking a sudden shift toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered too heavily on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides enough time to immerse in its world before everything gets upended.
Unique Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the cause for this contagious disease stems from a recent sample of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. Although we do learn something regarding how it started, I wish the movie devoted additional focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this affliction has on people is utterly repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a daring choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear quite realistic, and are almost certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better than the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Of course, we see some instances of questionable decision-making (like any any good zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with the nearest heavy object they find instead of standing still like a deer in headlights while danger nears.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people begin transforming into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains clinging to resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby location. But when Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to promote the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters express appreciation toward one another feel far more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of 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 some profound message regarding relatives or society, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're effective frights, and because the movie gives each character sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
