For the most part, I've had my fill of zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category feels largely depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out quite entertaining.
Excellent Rhythm and Personal Development
One of this movie's greatest strengths lies in the superb pacing. It begins with a memorable opening sequence in which a peaceful family party gets suddenly interrupted when a van plows right into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual emerges proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense moment is then succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to see this household before the tragedy struck.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir truly allows viewers sufficient opportunity to get to know its main characters before the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a former close friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and he loves playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch is Nes' father, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on only two things: his business and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is incredibly tense.
Invested in the Drama
I became so invested in the family's dynamics and their personal conflicts that I almost forgot I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a drawback, but in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime to showing viewers the identity of every relative represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled the audience to relate to the personalities enough to care about their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre that often introduces characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a real shock once events finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and various family interactions in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a Korean drama with somewhat morbid humor prior to taking an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" ground. These early moments aren't centered too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient opportunity to settle into the setting before it gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Source
The film also offers a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a new batch from Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. Although some background is provided a bit about its origins, I wish the film devoted additional time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to creating a deadly potion that appears to include a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the limited background, the effect this affliction produces on people proves utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also quite convincing, and are almost guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are some instances of questionable decision-making (like any any good zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available rather than standing still like a deer in headlights as death nears.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, this proved a welcome authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still clinging to bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they agree over the phone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been building for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This causes the moments when these characters do show gratitude for each other feel much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight about family or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're effective frights, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and entertaining
