Typically, I've had my fill of zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre feels mostly exhausted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. But, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Personal Growth
One of this movie's strongest assets is its excellent pacing. It begins with a striking initial scene where a calm family gathering is violently disrupted when a van crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense scene is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe the family before the disaster struck.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly allows viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with its main personalities prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has predictably caused a rift between Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and who loves playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. The family patriarch consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on just two things: his work and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so invested with this household's issues and their personal conflicts that I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—something that could sound like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film depicting us who each family member represents, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing personalities enabled me to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare feat in a genre that often presents characters just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to consume, so it's a genuine shock when things finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and the multiple family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a Korean drama with slightly dark humor prior to taking an abrupt turn toward shocking territory. These early scenes aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to settle into the setting prior to it gets upended.
Original Infection Source
This movie also offers a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition originates in a new sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. While we do learn something regarding how it started, I wish the movie had spent additional time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to producing a deadly elixir which seems to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the impact this condition has on humans proves utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also quite realistic, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few examples of dubious decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to strike an undead in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever heavy object they find instead of standing still like a deer in headlights as death nears.
Realistic Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict when people begin transforming into zombies, which was a welcome authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains holding onto bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they agree over the phone to meet up at a close spot. However, once Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters do show appreciation for each other seem much more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep message regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are successful frights, and since the movie allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable