For the most part, I'm over undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre seems largely depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for some time. But, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Growth
One of this movie's greatest assets lies in the superb rhythm. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence where a calm family party is violently disrupted when a vehicle crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger emerges and begins attacking the partygoers. This intense scene is immediately followed by a look back, allowing us to see this household before the tragedy occurred.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has understandably led to a falling out between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured yet socially awkward, and who loves playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. This household head is Nes' father, the owner of a popular natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and who seems to care about just two aspects: his business and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so invested with this family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a drawback, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a significant portion of the film to showing us the identity of every family member represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities allowed me to relate to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently presents characters just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, disposable victims for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine shock once events finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades as a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy prior to making an abrupt shift into "holy shit" territory. These introductory moments don't focus too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough opportunity to immerse in the setting prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
The film also offers a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the cause for this infectious condition stems from a recent sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the movie had spent a little more time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal elixir which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the impact this condition has on humans is utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring decision, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and are practically guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see a few instances of questionable choices (as in typical undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick an undead in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict when people begin transforming into zombies, this proved a welcome realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby location. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been building for years. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel authentic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to push the notion that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This makes the moments when these characters do show appreciation for each other feel much more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep message regarding relatives or society, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up scares. Yet these are effective frights, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome is a captivating and entertaining
