Generally speaking, I've had my fill of zombie movies. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category feels largely exhausted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.
Excellent Pacing and Character Growth
One of this movie's greatest strengths is its excellent rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly disrupted by a vehicle crashes into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding attacking the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to see the family before the disaster struck.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir truly allows the audience enough opportunity to get to know the primary personalities prior to the chaos begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has understandably led to a falling out between Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured but socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch consists of her dad, who runs a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who appears to care about just two aspects: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is extremely strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so invested with this family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot this was a scary movie—which might seem like a drawback, but in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of the film depicting viewers the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they add to the general turmoil. This focus on clashing traits enabled me to connect to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently introduces characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a real surprise when things eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid humor before taking a sudden shift toward "holy shit" ground. These early moments aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to immerse in the setting prior to it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
This movie also offers a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the cause for this infectious condition originates in a new batch from Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. While we do learn a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted additional time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to creating a deadly potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the limited background, the impact this affliction produces on humans proves utterly repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a bold choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and they're almost certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
More impressive than the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of dubious decision-making (as in typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to kick an undead in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with whatever heavy object is available rather than freezing like a deer in headlights as death approaches.
Realistic Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for everything! cliché often seen in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree over the phone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments when these characters do show gratitude toward one another seem far more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound insight about family or society, either. Instead, it's primarily delivering scares. But they're successful scares, and because the film allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result is an engaging and entertaining
