Typically, I'm over zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre seems mostly exhausted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated and proved quite enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Growth
Among this movie's strongest strengths lies in the superb rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene where a calm family gathering gets suddenly disrupted when a van plows right into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like individual emerges and begins attacking the attendees. This intense moment is immediately followed by a flashback, allowing us to observe the family before the disaster struck.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary personalities prior to the carnage begins. There's Nes, a married mother whose ex close friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably led to a falling out among Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and who enjoys gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household patriarch is her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company 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 incredibly tense.
Invested in the Drama
I became so invested in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost overlooked this was a scary movie—something that could sound like a negative, but in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of the film to showing us the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they contribute to the general turmoil. This focus on conflicting personalities enabled the audience to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre that often presents individuals only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, disposable victims for an army of the undead to devour, thus it's a genuine surprise once events finally go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various household exchanges in fact evoke the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid humor before making a sudden turn toward shocking territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives sufficient time to immerse in its world prior to it gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Source
The film additionally presents a quite intriguing reason for the source of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. Although some background is provided a bit about how it started, I wish the movie devoted additional time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a lethal elixir which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of context, the effect this condition produces on people is absolutely disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear very realistic, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
More impressive than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some instances of dubious choices (as in any good zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to strike an undead in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument is available rather than standing still like a deer in headlights as death nears.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, this proved a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for everything! cliché often seen in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes loves her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still holding onto bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to meet up at a nearby location. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments when these characters express appreciation toward one another feel far more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message regarding relatives or society, either. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are effective scares, and because the film allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result is an engaging and enjoyable
