Generally speaking, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, this category seems largely depleted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out remarkably entertaining.
Excellent Rhythm and Personal Growth
Among this movie's strongest strengths is its superb rhythm. It begins using a memorable opening sequence in which a calm family party gets suddenly interrupted by a van crashes into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like stranger stumbles out proceeding attacking the partygoers. This dramatic scene is immediately succeeded by a look back, allowing us to observe the family before the disaster occurred.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually gives the audience sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose ex close friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on Nes. The family head consists of her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on only two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves extremely strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed with this family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts to the point I nearly forgot I was watching a scary movie—which might seem like a drawback, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a significant amount of its runtime to showing viewers who each family member represents, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on conflicting personalities allowed me to relate with the characters enough to care about their fate—a rare feat for this style that often presents individuals only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and various family interactions actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy before making a sudden turn into shocking territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient time to settle into its world prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
This movie also offers a quite interesting reason regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Instead of a unintended lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause for this contagious disease stems from a new sample of Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. Although some background is provided a bit about how it started, I wish the film had spent additional time explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to contain a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of context, the impact this condition has on humans is utterly repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also very realistic, and they're almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive compared to the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see some instances of questionable decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her family are resourceful and sharp. They also don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever heavy object is available rather than freezing like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel authentic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This makes the moments when these characters do show appreciation toward one another seem far more sincere.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound insight about family or society, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up scares. Yet these are successful frights, and since the film gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
