Generally speaking, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre seems mostly depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations turning out quite entertaining.
Superb Pacing and Personal Development
Among this movie's greatest assets lies in the excellent pacing. It begins with a striking initial scene in which a calm family gathering is violently disrupted by a van plows right into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding attacking the attendees. This dramatic moment is then succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to observe this household before the tragedy occurred.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir truly gives the audience sufficient opportunity to get to know its main personalities before the chaos begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has understandably led to a rift among the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and who loves playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. The family head is Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two aspects: his work and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is incredibly strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so invested in the household's issues along with their personal conflicts that I almost overlooked I was watching a scary movie—which might sound like a drawback, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime depicting us who each family member is, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits allowed me to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat in a genre that often introduces individuals only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine shock when things finally go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor before making a sudden shift into "holy shit" ground. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough time to immerse in its world before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
The film also offers a quite interesting explanation for the source of the contagious transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a new sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the movie devoted additional focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a lethal potion that appears to include an extremely infectious virus. Despite the limited background, the impact this condition produces on people proves utterly repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also quite convincing, and they're practically certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better than the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some instances of dubious decision-making (as in typical undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and sharp. They also aren't afraid to kick an undead in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with the nearest heavy object is available rather than freezing like a deer caught in lights as death nears.
Realistic Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people begin transforming into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they decide via telephone to meet up at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been building for years. Nes is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and relatable because the film doesn't try to promote the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals express appreciation toward one another seem far more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound message about family or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're effective scares, 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 entertaining
