Generally speaking, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre seems largely depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out quite enjoyable.
Excellent Pacing and Personal Growth
Among this movie's strongest assets lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene where a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted when a vehicle plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like individual stumbles out and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense moment is then followed by a look back, allowing us to see the family before the disaster occurred.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir truly allows viewers sufficient time to get to know its main personalities prior to the carnage begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a former close friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—a clearly awkward situation. This has understandably led to a falling out among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and who loves gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. The family patriarch consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on only two things: his work and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is extremely strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts that I nearly forgot this was a horror film—something that could seem like a negative, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime to showing us who each family member represents, and how they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This focus on clashing traits allowed me to relate to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—a rare feat in a genre that often presents characters only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to devour, thus it's a real surprise once events finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and various family interactions in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades like a Korean drama featuring slightly dark humor prior to taking a sudden shift into shocking territory. These early moments don't focus as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives enough time to immerse in the setting prior to it gets upended.
Original Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a quite interesting reason regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source for this contagious disease stems from a recent sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding its origins, I wish the film devoted additional time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion which seems to include an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this affliction has on humans is utterly disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a bold choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also very convincing, and are almost guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of dubious decision-making (as in typical undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives are inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object they find instead of standing still like a deer caught in lights as death nears.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close location. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel authentic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals do show gratitude toward one another feel much more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound insight regarding relatives or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're effective frights, and because the movie allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable
