Typically, I'm over zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category seems largely exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out quite entertaining.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Growth
Among this movie's greatest strengths lies in the excellent pacing. It begins with a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly interrupted when a vehicle plows right into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking stranger stumbles out and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately followed by a look back, giving viewers to see the family prior to the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly gives the audience sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with its main personalities prior to the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose former best friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out among the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured yet socially awkward, and who loves playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. This household head consists of her dad, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two aspects: his business and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts that I almost overlooked this was a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime depicting us who each relative is, plus the ways they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits allowed me to connect to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently presents characters just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a genuine surprise once events eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a Korean drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking a sudden turn into "holy shit" territory. These early moments aren't centered too heavily on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient time to immerse in its world prior to it gets upended.
Unique Infection Source
The film also offers a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this infectious condition stems from a new batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. While some background is provided a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the film devoted a little more time explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this condition has on humans proves absolutely disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a bold decision, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear very convincing, and they're almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
More impressive compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are some examples of dubious choices (as in any good zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her family are inventive and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available instead of standing still like prey in headlights while danger approaches.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict when people begin transforming into zombies, which was a welcome authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide over the phone to meet up at a nearby location. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses a massive 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 understandable because the film doesn't try to promote the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances where these individuals do show appreciation toward one another feel much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound message regarding relatives or community, either. Instead, it's primarily serving up scares. But they're successful frights, and because the movie allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is an engaging and enjoyable
