Typically, I've had my fill of undead films. While favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre feels largely exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for months. However, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations and proved quite entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Character Growth
One of this movie's greatest assets lies in the superb pacing. It begins using a striking opening sequence in which a peaceful family party is violently interrupted by a van plows into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like stranger stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This dramatic moment is then succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to see this household before the tragedy struck.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly gives viewers sufficient opportunity to get to know the primary personalities prior to the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—an obviously awkward dynamic. This has understandably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured but a bit inept socially, and he enjoys gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on Nes. This household patriarch consists of her dad, who runs a popular natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and he seems focused on only two things: his work and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so engrossed with this family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama that I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime to showing us the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they contribute to the general turmoil. This focus on clashing personalities enabled the audience to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat for this style which frequently presents individuals just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to consume, thus it's a real surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and various family interactions actually evoke the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a Korean drama featuring slightly dark humor prior to taking a sudden shift into "holy shit" ground. These early scenes aren't centered too heavily on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient opportunity to immerse in its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Source
The film additionally presents a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. While we do learn something regarding its origins, I wish the film had spent additional time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the impact this affliction produces on people proves absolutely repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a bold choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear quite realistic, and are practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
More impressive than the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some examples of dubious choices (as in any good undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives are inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick an undead in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like a deer caught in lights as death approaches.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord when people start turning into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains holding onto resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they agree over the phone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals do show gratitude toward one another seem far more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep insight about family or society, either. Rather, it's mostly delivering frights. Yet these are successful frights, and since the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the outcome is a captivating and entertaining
