For the most part, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre feels largely exhausted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. However, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated and proved quite enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Growth
One of this movie's strongest strengths lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off with a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly interrupted when a vehicle crashes into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding attacking the attendees. This intense moment is immediately followed by a flashback, allowing us to see this household before the tragedy struck.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually allows the audience sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary characters before the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a married mother with a ex best friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—a clearly awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a rift between Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and he loves playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. This household head consists of Nes' father, the owner of a well-known natural medicine company named Wani Waras, and he seems to care about just two aspects: his work and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves incredibly strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed with this household's issues along with their interpersonal drama that I almost overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could sound like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of the film to showing viewers the identity of every relative is, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits allowed the audience to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment in a genre which frequently presents characters just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, disposable victims for an army of the undead to devour, so it's a real shock once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking an abrupt shift toward "holy shit" territory. These early scenes aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives sufficient opportunity to immerse in the setting before everything gets upended.
Unique Infection Source
The film additionally presents a quite interesting reason regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition stems from a new batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. Although we do learn something regarding how it started, I wish the movie had spent a little more time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the impact this affliction produces on people is utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a bold choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear quite realistic, and are almost certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are some examples of questionable decision-making (like any typical undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available rather than standing still like a deer caught in lights while danger nears.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict when people start turning into zombies, which was a pleasantly realistic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for everything! cliché frequently used in end-of-world films. Obviously, 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 agree over the phone to regroup at a close spot. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—seem authentic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters do show gratitude for each other feel far more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep insight about family or society, either. Instead, it's primarily delivering scares. Yet these are effective frights, and because the film gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result proves a captivating and entertaining
