Typically, I'm over apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category feels largely exhausted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for some time. But, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out quite entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Character Development
One of this movie's greatest strengths lies in the superb rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable opening sequence where a calm family party gets suddenly interrupted by a van crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like stranger emerges and begins assaulting the attendees. This intense moment is immediately followed by a look back, giving viewers to observe this household prior to the tragedy occurred.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly allows viewers enough time to become acquainted with its main personalities before the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a ex best friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—a clearly awkward situation. Naturally, this has understandably led to a rift between Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and who loves playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to her. This household head consists of Nes' father, who runs a popular natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on only two things: his work and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself 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 seem like a drawback, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film depicting viewers who each relative represents, plus the ways they add to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting traits enabled me to relate with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style that often presents individuals only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a real surprise when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama with slightly dark comedy prior to taking an abrupt shift toward shocking ground. These early moments don't focus as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides sufficient time to settle into its world prior to it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the cause for this infectious condition originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While some background is provided a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the movie had spent a little more focus on how Wani Waras went from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the limited context, the impact this affliction produces on people proves absolutely repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear quite realistic, and are practically guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
Even better than the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of questionable choices (like any any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to strike an undead in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with the nearest heavy object is available instead of standing still like prey in headlights as death approaches.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict once individuals start turning to the undead, this proved a welcome authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for everything! trope often seen in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still holding onto resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they decide over the phone to meet up at a close spot. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel realistic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals express gratitude for each other seem much more genuine.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep message regarding relatives or society, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up scares. Yet these are successful frights, and since the movie allows every personality enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result is an engaging and entertaining
