Typically, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre feels largely depleted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. But, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.
Impressive Pacing and Personal Development
One of this movie's strongest assets is its superb pacing. It kicks off with a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted by a van plows into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like individual emerges and begins assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a look back, allowing us to observe this household prior to the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir truly gives viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary characters before the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who loves gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. The family patriarch is her dad, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and who appears to care about only two aspects: his business and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is extremely tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so invested in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot this was a scary movie—which might sound like a negative, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film to showing us the identity of every relative is, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed me to relate with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat for this style that often introduces characters just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine shock once events eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy before making a sudden shift toward shocking territory. These early moments aren't centered too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives enough time to immerse in its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Source
This movie also offers a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Instead of an accidental lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the cause for this infectious condition stems from a new sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. While some background is provided a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted additional focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to creating a deadly potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Despite the limited context, the effect this affliction has on people proves utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring decision, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also quite realistic, and are almost guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
More impressive than the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, we see a few examples of questionable choices (as in any good undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with the nearest heavy object is available rather than standing still like prey caught in lights as death approaches.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a welcome realistic 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!" cliché often seen in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and understandable because the film doesn't try to promote the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals do show gratitude toward one another seem far more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep insight about family or community, as well. Rather, it's mostly delivering frights. Yet these are successful scares, and because the movie allows every personality sufficient space to grow and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the outcome is an engaging and enjoyable
