Typically, I've grown tired of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre feels largely depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations and proved remarkably entertaining.
Impressive Pacing and Personal Development
One of the film's strongest assets is its superb rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene where a calm family party gets suddenly disrupted by a vehicle plows into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like stranger emerges and begins attacking the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to see this household prior to the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough time to get to know the primary characters prior to the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and who enjoys gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. This household head is Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who seems to care about just two aspects: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so engrossed with this family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts that I nearly forgot this was a horror film—which might seem like a negative, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of the film depicting us the identity of every family member is, plus the ways they add to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled me to connect with the characters sufficiently to care about their outcome—an uncommon feat in a genre which frequently presents characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine shock when things finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and the multiple family interactions in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory scenes don't focus as much on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives enough opportunity to immerse in the setting prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
This movie also offers a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a recent sample of Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. While we do learn something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film devoted additional time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Despite the lack of context, the effect this affliction has on people proves utterly repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and are practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
More impressive than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of questionable choices (like any typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her family are inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike an undead in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument they find instead of freezing like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord when people start turning into zombies, which was a pleasantly realistic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they decide over the phone to regroup at a close location. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been building for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals do show appreciation for each other feel much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound message regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. Yet these are effective frights, and since the film gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves a captivating and enjoyable
