Typically, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre feels largely depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. But, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations and proved remarkably entertaining.
Excellent Pacing and Character Growth
One of the film's greatest assets lies in the excellent pacing. It begins using a striking opening sequence in which a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking stranger stumbles out and begins attacking the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, allowing us to see this household prior to the tragedy occurred.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient time to get to know its main personalities prior to the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a married mother whose former best friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—an obviously awkward situation. Naturally, this has understandably caused a falling out between the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and who loves playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. The family head consists of her dad, who runs a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he seems to care about just two aspects: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so engrossed with this family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot this was a horror film—which might seem like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a significant portion of the film to showing viewers the identity of every relative is, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting traits enabled me to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare feat for this style which frequently introduces characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to consume, so it's a genuine shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and various family interactions actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor before taking an abrupt shift toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to settle into its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition stems from a new sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film had spent additional focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal elixir that appears to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the impact this affliction has on people is absolutely disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring decision, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear quite convincing, and are practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of dubious decision-making (like any typical undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives 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 over the head with the nearest blunt instrument they find instead of standing still like a deer in headlights while danger nears.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, this proved a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for everything! trope often seen in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes loves her family and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains holding onto resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they agree via telephone to meet up at a nearby location. But when Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel authentic and understandable because the film doesn't try to promote the notion that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes those instances when these characters do show appreciation for each other feel far more sincere.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound message about family or community, either. Rather, it's primarily delivering scares. Yet these are successful scares, and because the film gives each character sufficient space to grow and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result is an engaging and enjoyable
