Typically, I've grown tired of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre seems mostly depleted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for some time. But, Netflix's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out quite enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Development
Among this movie's greatest strengths is its excellent pacing. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted when a vehicle crashes into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding attacking the partygoers. This dramatic scene is immediately succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to see this household prior to the tragedy occurred.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough opportunity to get to know its main characters before the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose ex close friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—an obviously awkward situation. This has understandably caused a rift among the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on her. The family head is her dad, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on only two aspects: his business and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly tense.
Invested in the Drama
I became so invested with this family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts that I almost forgot I was watching a horror film—something that could sound like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of the film depicting viewers who each family member is, plus the ways they add to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing traits allowed me to relate to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style which frequently presents characters just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to consume, thus it's a genuine surprise when things eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and various family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a story that masquerades as a Korean drama featuring slightly dark humor before making an abrupt turn into shocking ground. These early moments don't focus too heavily on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient time to settle into its world prior to it gets upended.
Unique Infection Origin
This movie also offers a fairly interesting explanation regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a recent batch from Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. While some background is provided a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent additional time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this affliction has on humans proves utterly repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a daring choice, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also very realistic, and are practically guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
Even better than the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Of course, we see some examples of dubious choices (like any any good zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family are inventive and sharp. They also aren't afraid to kick an undead in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights as death approaches.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a pleasantly realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for everything! trope frequently used in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes loves her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains holding onto bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the notion that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments when these characters do show appreciation toward one another feel much more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message about family or society, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up scares. But they're successful scares, and because the film allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
