Generally speaking, I've had my fill of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category seems mostly depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated turning out quite enjoyable.
Impressive Pacing and Character Development
Among this movie's greatest strengths is its superb pacing. It kicks off with a memorable opening sequence where a calm family gathering is violently interrupted by a vehicle plows right into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding attacking the attendees. This dramatic moment is then succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe the family before the disaster occurred.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough time to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the chaos begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a former best friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. This has understandably caused a falling out between the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on her. This household head consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he appears focused on just two aspects: his work and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so engrossed in the household's issues and their personal conflicts that I nearly forgot this was a scary movie—something that could sound like a negative, but in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a significant portion of its runtime to showing viewers who each family member is, plus the ways they add to the general turmoil. This focus on clashing personalities allowed me to connect to the personalities enough to care about their fate—an uncommon accomplishment for this style which frequently introduces characters just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to devour, so it's a real shock when things eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a Korean drama with somewhat morbid humor before making a sudden shift toward shocking ground. These early moments aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives sufficient opportunity to settle into the setting before everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
The film also offers a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the source of this infectious condition stems from a new sample of Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. Although some background is provided a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the film had spent a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Despite the limited context, the effect this condition has on people is utterly repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a bold decision, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear very realistic, and they're almost guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better than the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are a few examples of dubious choices (as in any good undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike an undead in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights as death approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for everything! cliché frequently used in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they decide via telephone to meet up at a nearby location. However, once Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This makes the moments where these individuals do show gratitude for each other feel much more sincere.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep message about family or community, either. Instead, it's primarily delivering scares. But they're effective frights, and since the film allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is an engaging and enjoyable
