For the most part, I've grown tired of zombie movies. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category seems largely depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Character Growth
Among this movie's greatest assets is its excellent pacing. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene where a calm family party is violently interrupted by a vehicle crashes right into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding attacking the attendees. This intense scene is immediately followed by a look back, giving viewers to see the family prior to the disaster occurred.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir truly gives the audience enough time to become acquainted with its main characters before the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—an obviously awkward dynamic. This has predictably led to a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured but a bit inept socially, and he enjoys playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on Nes. The family head is Nes' father, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and who seems to care about just two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics and their personal conflicts that I nearly overlooked this was a horror film—something that could sound like a negative, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of the film depicting us who each relative is, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits allowed me to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style that often presents characters only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to consume, so it's a real surprise once events eventually go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a Korean drama featuring slightly dark humor before making an abrupt turn into shocking ground. These early moments don't focus as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to immerse in its world before everything gets upended.
Original Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the cause for this infectious condition originates in a recent batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. Although some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the film devoted a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to creating a lethal potion which seems to include an extremely infectious virus. Despite the lack of context, the effect this affliction produces on humans is absolutely disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's undead are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear very realistic, and are practically certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
Even better than the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are some instances of questionable choices (as in typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and sharp. They also aren't afraid to kick an undead in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with whatever heavy object is available instead of standing still like prey in headlights as death nears.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord when people begin transforming to the undead, which was a pleasantly authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been building over time. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This makes the moments where these individuals express appreciation toward one another feel much more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound insight about family or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up scares. Yet these are effective scares, and since the movie allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves a captivating and entertaining
