Typically, I'm over undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category feels mostly exhausted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations and proved remarkably entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Character Growth
One of this movie's greatest assets lies in the superb pacing. It begins using a memorable opening sequence in which a peaceful family party is violently disrupted when a vehicle plows into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to observe this household before the tragedy struck.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir actually gives the audience sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has understandably caused a falling out between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and he loves playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household head is her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and who seems to care about only two things: his business and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed with this household's issues and their personal conflicts to the point I almost forgot I was watching a scary movie—which might seem like a negative, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of its runtime to showing viewers the identity of every family member represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This focus on clashing traits enabled the audience to relate with the characters 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 two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of zombies to devour, so it's a genuine shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and the multiple family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor before taking a sudden turn toward "holy shit" territory. These introductory scenes don't focus as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient opportunity to settle into its world before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
This movie also offers a quite intriguing reason regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the cause for this infectious condition stems from a new sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the movie had spent a little more focus on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a lethal elixir that appears to contain an extremely infectious virus. Despite the limited context, the effect this condition has on humans proves absolutely disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very realistic, and are almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive compared to the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see some examples of questionable decision-making (like any any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her family are inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike an undead in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with whatever heavy object is available instead of standing still like prey caught in lights as death nears.
Realistic Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict when people start turning to the undead, this proved a pleasantly authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for everything! cliché often seen in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes loves her family and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still holding onto resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they decide over the phone to regroup at a nearby location. However, once Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been building over time. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to push the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments where these individuals do show appreciation for each other feel far more sincere.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound insight about family or community, either. Rather, it's primarily delivering scares. Yet these are successful frights, and since the film allows every personality enough room to grow and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the outcome is an engaging and enjoyable
