Typically, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category feels largely exhausted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. But, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Development
Among the film's greatest assets lies in the superb rhythm. It kicks off with a striking initial scene in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly interrupted by a van crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to see the family prior to the tragedy occurred.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir truly gives viewers sufficient opportunity to get to know the primary personalities prior to the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward dynamic. This has understandably led to a falling out between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured yet socially awkward, and he enjoys gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on her. This household head is Nes' father, the owner of a popular natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and who appears to care about just two things: his work and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so engrossed with this household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly overlooked this was a scary movie—something that could sound like a negative, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime to showing us the identity of every relative is, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed the audience to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently introduces individuals just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a real surprise once events finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and various household exchanges in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking an abrupt shift toward "holy shit" territory. These introductory scenes aren't centered too heavily on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient opportunity to immerse in the setting prior to it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Instead of a unintended lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this infectious condition originates in a recent sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. While some background is provided a bit about its origins, I wish the film had spent a little more time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of holistic medicine to creating a deadly potion that appears to contain a highly contagious virus. Despite the limited background, the effect this affliction has on humans is utterly repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a daring choice, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very realistic, and are almost guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, we see a few instances of questionable decision-making (like any any good undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument they find instead of standing still like prey in headlights as death approaches.
Realistic Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning to the undead, this proved a pleasantly authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes loves her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they agree over the phone to meet up at a close spot. But when Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to push the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals do show appreciation toward one another seem much more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep message regarding relatives or society, as well. Instead, it's mostly delivering scares. But they're successful scares, and since the film gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves a captivating and enjoyable
