Generally speaking, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category feels mostly exhausted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. However, Netflix's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Character Growth
Among the film's strongest assets is its superb pacing. It kicks off using a striking initial scene where a peaceful family party is violently disrupted when a van crashes right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger emerges and begins attacking the attendees. This intense moment is then succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to see this household prior to the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir truly allows the audience sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the chaos begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former best friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—a clearly awkward dynamic. This has understandably caused a rift among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted but socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. This household patriarch consists of her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he appears focused on just two aspects: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so invested with this household's issues and their personal conflicts that I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—which might sound like a negative, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a significant amount of its runtime depicting viewers who each family member is, plus the ways they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing traits enabled me to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style which frequently introduces characters only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to consume, so it's a real surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a Korean drama with somewhat morbid humor prior to making a sudden shift into shocking territory. These introductory moments aren't centered too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still gives sufficient time to immerse in its world prior to it gets upended.
Unique Infection Source
This movie also offers a fairly interesting reason regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the source for this contagious disease originates in a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding its origins, I wish the movie devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to creating a deadly potion that appears to include an extremely infectious virus. Despite the limited background, the effect this affliction has on humans proves absolutely disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring decision, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also quite convincing, and are practically certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, there are some instances of dubious decision-making (as in typical undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available rather than freezing like prey in headlights as death approaches.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict when people start turning into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for everything! trope frequently used in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes loves her family and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they decide over the phone to regroup at a nearby location. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments where these individuals do show appreciation toward one another seem much more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound insight about family or society, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are effective frights, and since the film gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves a captivating and entertaining
