Typically, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre seems largely depleted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Development
Among this movie's greatest strengths lies in the superb pacing. It begins with a memorable initial scene where a calm family party is violently disrupted by a vehicle crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like individual emerges proceeding assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is then followed by a look back, giving viewers to observe the family prior to the disaster struck.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually allows the audience enough opportunity to get to know the primary personalities prior to the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex close friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably led to a rift between the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and who enjoys gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently been unfaithful to her. The family head is Nes' father, who runs a well-known natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and he appears focused on just two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves incredibly tense.
Invested in the Drama
I became so invested in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost overlooked this was a horror film—which might seem like a negative, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime depicting us the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they contribute to the general dysfunction. This focus on clashing traits enabled the audience to relate to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment in a genre that often presents characters just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of zombies to devour, so it's a real surprise when things eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple family interactions in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid humor before making a sudden shift toward shocking ground. These early moments aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives sufficient opportunity to immerse in the setting before it gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a quite interesting explanation for the source of the spreading transformation. Instead of a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source of this contagious disease originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. While we do learn a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to producing a deadly potion that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of context, the impact this affliction produces on people is utterly repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a bold choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also quite convincing, and they're almost certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
More impressive compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are some examples of questionable decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike an undead in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like a deer in headlights as death approaches.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord once individuals start turning to the undead, which was a pleasantly authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for everything! cliché frequently used in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they agree via telephone to regroup at a close 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 building over time. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem authentic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals do show appreciation toward one another feel far more genuine.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message regarding relatives or community, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up frights. But they're successful scares, and since the film gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is an engaging and entertaining
