For the most part, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category feels mostly depleted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for months. However, Netflix's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Pacing and Personal Growth
Among this movie's strongest strengths is its superb pacing. It begins with a striking opening sequence in which a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted by a van crashes right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe the family prior to the tragedy occurred.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir truly allows the audience sufficient time to become acquainted with its main characters before the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose former best friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—a clearly awkward situation. This has predictably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and who enjoys gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household head consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and who appears to care about just two things: his business and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves incredibly tense.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so invested in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot this was a scary movie—which might sound like a negative, but in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every relative represents, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on conflicting traits allowed me to relate with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat in a genre which frequently introduces characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to devour, so it's a genuine surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and various family interactions actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring slightly dark comedy before taking a sudden shift toward shocking territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides enough time to settle into its world prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Origin
This movie additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the cause for this contagious disease originates in a new batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. While we do learn something regarding how it started, I wish the film had spent a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a lethal potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the limited background, the effect this condition produces on people is utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a bold choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear quite convincing, and are almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better than the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Of course, there are some examples of dubious decision-making (like any typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike an undead in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument they find rather than standing still like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Realistic Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning to the undead, this proved a welcome authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for everything! trope frequently used in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they agree over the phone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This makes the moments where these individuals do show appreciation toward one another feel far more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight about family or community, either. Instead, it's mostly delivering scares. Yet these are successful scares, and because the film allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable
