For the most part, I've grown tired of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre feels largely depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for months. However, Netflix's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations and proved quite entertaining.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Development
Among this movie's greatest assets is its excellent rhythm. It kicks off with a striking initial scene in which a calm family party gets suddenly disrupted by a van plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking stranger stumbles out and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense scene is immediately followed by a look back, allowing us to observe the family before the tragedy struck.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly allows viewers enough time to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably led to a falling out among the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who loves playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. The family head consists of her dad, who runs a popular natural medicine company named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two aspects: his work and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a drawback, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film to showing us the identity of every relative represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This focus on clashing traits enabled me to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat for this style that often introduces characters just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for an army of the undead to devour, so it's a real surprise when things eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and the multiple family interactions in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy before making an abrupt shift into shocking territory. These early scenes aren't centered too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides enough time to immerse in the setting before it gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this infectious condition originates in a recent sample from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although we do learn a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the movie devoted a little more focus on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion that appears to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this condition has on people proves absolutely disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a bold choice, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very realistic, and are practically guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
More impressive than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are some examples of dubious decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and sharp. They also don't hesitate to strike an undead in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like prey in headlights while danger nears.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a pleasantly realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes loves her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still clinging to resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close location. But when Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building for years. Nes is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and understandable because the film doesn't try to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments when these characters do show appreciation toward one another seem much more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound insight regarding relatives or community, either. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are effective scares, and because the film gives each character enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the outcome is a captivating and enjoyable
