For the most part, I'm over zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category feels mostly depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for months. But, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Personal Development
One of this movie's greatest strengths is its excellent rhythm. It begins using a memorable initial scene where a peaceful family party is violently interrupted by a van crashes into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like stranger emerges proceeding attacking the partygoers. This dramatic moment is then followed by a look back, allowing us to observe the family before the disaster occurred.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient opportunity to get to know its main personalities before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a married mother whose ex best friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. Naturally, this has predictably led to a rift among the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and he enjoys gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on Nes. This household head is Nes' father, the owner of a well-known natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on only two aspects: his work and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost overlooked I was watching a scary movie—which might seem like a drawback, but in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a significant amount of the film depicting viewers the identity of every relative represents, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled me to relate to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—a rare feat in a genre which frequently presents characters only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to devour, thus it's a genuine shock when things finally go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and various family interactions actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy before taking an abrupt shift toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory scenes don't focus as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to immerse in its world before everything gets upended.
Unique Zombification Origin
This movie also offers a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a recent sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. While some background is provided a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the movie had spent a little more focus on how Wani Waras went from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to producing a deadly elixir that appears to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the lack of background, the effect this condition has on humans proves utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a daring choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and they're practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
Even better than the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some instances of dubious decision-making (as in any good undead film), however generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and sharp. They also aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with whatever heavy object is available instead of standing still like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a welcome realistic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they decide over the phone to regroup at a nearby location. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been building for years. 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 instantly cures familial strife. This makes those instances when these characters express appreciation toward one another feel far more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep message about family or society, as well. Instead, it's mostly serving up scares. But they're successful frights, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves a captivating and entertaining
