Generally speaking, I'm over apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems mostly exhausted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. But, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated and proved quite enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Growth
Among the film's greatest assets lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene in which a calm family party gets suddenly interrupted by a van plows right into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic scene is immediately followed by a look back, allowing us to see this household before the tragedy struck.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly allows the audience sufficient time to get to know the primary characters prior to the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother with a former close friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously awkward dynamic. This has predictably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and who loves playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on her. This household head is her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two aspects: his business and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so invested in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot this was a scary movie—which might seem like a drawback, but in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of its runtime depicting us the identity of every relative represents, and how they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled me to connect to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—a rare feat for this style which frequently introduces individuals just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to consume, so it's a real shock once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and various family interactions in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades as a Korean drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to making a sudden turn into "holy shit" ground. These early scenes don't focus as much on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough time to settle into its world before it gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Origin
The film also offers a quite interesting reason regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a new batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed 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 supplier of holistic medicine to producing a lethal potion that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this condition produces on humans proves absolutely repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring decision, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also quite realistic, and are almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few examples of questionable choices (like any any good zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to strike an undead in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with the nearest heavy object is available instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict when people 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 so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains clinging to bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they decide over the phone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive 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 authentic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to push the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This causes the moments where these individuals do show appreciation toward one another seem much more sincere.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound insight about family or society, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're effective scares, and because the movie allows every personality sufficient space to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result proves a captivating and entertaining
