Generally speaking, I've had my fill of zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category feels mostly depleted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for months. However, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Personal Development
Among the film's greatest assets lies in the superb rhythm. It kicks off with a striking opening sequence in which a calm family party is violently disrupted by a vehicle crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger emerges proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, allowing us to observe the family prior to the disaster struck.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually allows the audience enough time to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has understandably led to a falling out between the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on Nes. The family patriarch consists of Nes' father, the owner of a well-known natural medicine company named Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two aspects: his business and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is incredibly tense.
Invested in the Drama
I became so engrossed in the family's dynamics and their personal conflicts to the point I nearly forgot this was a horror film—which might seem like a negative, but in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a significant portion of the film to showing us the identity of every relative is, and how they add to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed me to connect to the personalities enough to care about their fate—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently introduces individuals only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to consume, so it's a real shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking a sudden turn into shocking ground. These early moments don't focus as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to settle into its world before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Origin
The film also offers a fairly interesting reason regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source of this contagious disease stems from a new sample of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While some background is provided a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the movie had spent a little more focus on how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir which seems to contain a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of background, the effect this condition has on people is utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a bold choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also quite realistic, and are practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
More impressive than the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of dubious decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her family are resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument they find rather than freezing like prey in headlights as death approaches.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals start turning to the undead, this proved a pleasantly authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for everything! trope frequently used in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still clinging to resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they decide via telephone to meet up at a close location. But when Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes those instances where these individuals do show appreciation for each other feel far more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound insight about family or community, as well. Rather, it's mostly 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 is an engaging and enjoyable
