Generally speaking, I've grown tired of undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category seems mostly exhausted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for months. But, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated turning out quite enjoyable.
Excellent Pacing and Character Development
Among the film's greatest assets lies in the excellent pacing. It kicks off with a memorable opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted by a van crashes right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, allowing us to see the family prior to the tragedy struck.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly allows the audience sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother with a ex best friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has predictably caused a rift between the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and he loves gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. This household patriarch is Nes' father, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who seems to care about just two aspects: his business and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is extremely strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so engrossed in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of its runtime to showing us the identity of every relative is, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled the audience to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare feat for this style that often presents characters just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a real shock when things finally go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and various family interactions in fact evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a Korean drama with somewhat morbid comedy before making a sudden shift toward shocking territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to immerse in its world prior to it gets upended.
Unique Infection Origin
This movie also offers a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Instead of an accidental lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the source for this contagious disease stems from a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. Although we do learn a bit about its origins, I wish the film devoted a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to creating a lethal elixir which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the limited context, the effect this condition has on humans proves absolutely repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also quite convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive compared to the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see some instances of dubious decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available rather than freezing like prey caught in lights while danger nears.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, which was a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for everything! cliché often seen in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains clinging to bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they decide over the phone to meet up at a close spot. But when Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This makes the moments where these individuals express appreciation for each other feel much more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound insight about family or society, either. Instead, it's primarily serving up scares. But they're effective frights, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and entertaining
