For the most part, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. While favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from 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. But, Netflix's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated and proved quite entertaining.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Growth
Among the film's strongest strengths is its excellent pacing. It begins using a striking initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted by a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to see the family before the tragedy occurred.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough opportunity to get to know the primary personalities before the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a ex best friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a rift among Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and who enjoys gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. This household patriarch consists of her dad, who runs a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two things: his work and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves extremely strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed with this household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly overlooked I was watching a scary movie—something that could seem like a drawback, but in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of the film depicting viewers who each family member is, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting personalities allowed me to connect to the personalities enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment in a genre which frequently presents characters just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine shock once events finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and the multiple family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades as a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy before making an abrupt shift into shocking territory. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives enough time to settle into the setting before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a quite intriguing reason regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the cause for this infectious condition originates in a recent sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film devoted a little more time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Despite the limited context, the effect this condition has on people is absolutely repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a bold choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear quite realistic, and they're practically guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, we see some instances of dubious decision-making (as in typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick an undead in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever heavy object they find rather than standing still like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a welcome authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for everything! trope frequently used in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they decide via telephone to meet up at a close location. However, once Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been building for years. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and relatable because the film doesn't try to promote the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals do show appreciation toward one another seem far more sincere.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound message about family or community, either. Instead, it's mostly serving up scares. Yet these are successful frights, and because the movie gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable
