Typically, I'm over undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre feels mostly exhausted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations and proved quite enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Growth
One of this movie's strongest assets is its superb rhythm. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted by a vehicle crashes into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like stranger emerges and begins assaulting the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to see this household before the tragedy struck.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly allows the audience sufficient opportunity to get to know its main personalities prior to the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose former best friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has understandably led to a rift among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured but a bit inept socially, and who loves playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on her. The family patriarch consists of her dad, who runs a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and who seems to care about just two things: his business and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves incredibly strained.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot this was a horror film—which might seem like a negative, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime to showing viewers the identity of every relative represents, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting traits enabled me to relate with the characters enough to care about their fate—an uncommon accomplishment for this style that often presents individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a real surprise once events finally go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and various household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to making an abrupt shift into "holy shit" territory. These introductory moments aren't centered too heavily on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives enough time to immerse in the setting before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting reason regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a new sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. Although some background is provided a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the film devoted a little more focus on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to producing a lethal elixir which seems to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the limited context, the impact this affliction has on people proves absolutely disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear quite convincing, and are practically guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, we see a few examples of questionable decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord when people start turning into zombies, this proved a welcome realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still holding onto resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they decide via telephone to meet up at a close location. But when Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments when these characters express appreciation toward one another seem much more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep message about family or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're successful scares, and because the film gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result is an engaging and entertaining
