Typically, I'm over apocalyptic horror. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, this category seems largely exhausted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, Netflix's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out quite enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Growth
Among this movie's greatest assets is its excellent rhythm. It kicks off using a striking initial scene in which a peaceful family party is violently interrupted by a van crashes right into the guest area. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger emerges and begins assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is then followed by a look back, giving viewers to observe this household before the tragedy occurred.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough opportunity to get to know its main personalities before the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has understandably led to a rift between the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured yet socially awkward, and he enjoys gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on her. The family patriarch is Nes' father, who runs a popular natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on only two things: his work and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves incredibly tense.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so invested with this household's issues along with their personal conflicts to the point I nearly forgot this was a horror film—which might sound like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime depicting viewers who each relative represents, plus the ways they add to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting personalities enabled me to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment for this style which frequently introduces individuals only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to devour, thus it's a real shock when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades as a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking a sudden shift into "holy shit" ground. These early scenes aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient time to immerse in the setting prior to everything gets upended.
Original Zombification Origin
This movie also offers a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the cause of this infectious condition originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. Although some background is provided a bit about its origins, I wish the film devoted additional time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal elixir which seems to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this condition produces on people is utterly repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a bold decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and are almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see some examples of questionable choices (as in any good zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with the nearest heavy object they find rather than freezing like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict when people begin transforming to the undead, which was a welcome realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for everything! trope frequently used in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, 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 spot. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been building for years. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This makes the moments when these characters do show appreciation for each other feel far more sincere.
Predictable 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 offering up any deep insight about family or community, as well. Rather, it's mostly delivering frights. Yet these are successful frights, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable
