For the most part, I've grown tired of undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre feels largely depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for some time. But, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated and proved quite entertaining.
Impressive Pacing and Personal Development
One of this movie's strongest assets is its superb rhythm. It begins using a memorable opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly disrupted when a vehicle crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking individual emerges proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a flashback, allowing us to see this household before the disaster struck.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir truly allows viewers sufficient time to get to know its main characters before the chaos begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably caused a falling out among the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured yet socially awkward, and he loves gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household head consists of Nes' father, the owner of a well-known natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and he seems to care about only two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so invested in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot this was a horror film—which might sound like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film depicting us the identity of every family member represents, plus the ways they add to the general dysfunction. This focus on clashing personalities enabled the audience to relate to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon accomplishment for this style that often presents characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a genuine surprise once events finally go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama featuring slightly dark humor prior to taking a sudden shift toward shocking territory. These early moments don't focus too heavily on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient opportunity to settle into its world before it gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition stems from a new sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, I wish the film had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras went from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion that appears to contain a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of background, the effect this condition produces on people proves absolutely disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a bold choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and are almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some examples of questionable decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick an undead in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with the nearest heavy object is available rather than freezing like a deer in headlights while danger nears.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict when people begin transforming into zombies, this proved a welcome authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they agree over the phone to regroup at a nearby location. But when Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been building for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable because the film doesn't try to push the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals express gratitude for each other feel much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound insight regarding relatives or society, either. Instead, it's primarily serving up scares. But they're successful scares, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result proves a captivating and entertaining
