Typically, I've grown tired of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre feels largely exhausted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. But, Netflix's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations and proved quite enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Growth
Among the film's greatest assets lies in the superb pacing. It begins with a memorable initial scene where a peaceful family party gets suddenly disrupted by a van crashes right into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding attacking the partygoers. This dramatic scene is immediately succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to see this household before the disaster struck.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually allows the audience sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with its main personalities before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a former close friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—an obviously awkward situation. Naturally, this has understandably caused a falling out between the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who enjoys gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. The family patriarch consists of Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on only two aspects: his business and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is extremely tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so invested in the family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts that I almost forgot this was a scary movie—something that could seem like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film depicting us the identity of every relative represents, and how they add to the general turmoil. This focus on conflicting personalities allowed me to connect with the characters enough to care about their fate—an uncommon feat for this style that often presents individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to consume, so it's a real surprise once events finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and various family interactions in fact evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a Korean drama with slightly dark comedy prior to taking a sudden shift into "holy shit" ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient opportunity to immerse in its world prior to it gets upended.
Unique Infection Origin
This movie also offers a fairly intriguing reason regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the cause for this contagious disease stems from a recent sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. Although some background is provided something regarding how it started, I wish the movie devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to creating a deadly elixir which seems to include an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the lack of context, the impact this affliction produces on people is absolutely repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also quite convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few examples of dubious decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like a deer caught in lights while danger nears.
Realistic Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for everything! cliché frequently used in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they agree over the phone to regroup at a nearby location. But when Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to promote the idea that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This causes those instances where these individuals do show gratitude for each other feel far more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound insight regarding relatives or community, either. Rather, it's mostly delivering scares. But they're effective frights, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
