Generally speaking, I've grown tired of zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre feels mostly depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, Netflix's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations and proved remarkably entertaining.
Excellent Rhythm and Personal Development
One of this movie's strongest assets lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene where a peaceful family party is violently disrupted by a van crashes right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding attacking the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a look back, allowing us to observe this household prior to the tragedy struck.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly allows viewers enough time to get to know the primary personalities before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a former close friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has predictably led to a falling out between the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and who loves gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household head consists of Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two aspects: his work and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so invested in the household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—which might sound like a negative, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a significant portion of the film to showing viewers the identity of every family member is, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This focus on conflicting personalities enabled me to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment for this style which frequently presents individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of zombies to consume, so it's a genuine surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor prior to making an abrupt turn into shocking territory. These early scenes aren't centered too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to settle into its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a fairly interesting reason regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition stems from a recent batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. Although some background is provided a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent a little more time on how Wani Waras went from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal elixir which seems to contain a highly contagious virus. Despite the limited background, the impact this affliction produces on humans proves utterly repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's undead prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a bold choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see some instances of dubious decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to strike an undead in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like a deer in headlights as death nears.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord when people start turning into zombies, this proved a welcome authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for everything! cliché frequently used in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains holding onto resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they decide over the phone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters do show appreciation for each other feel much more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound message about family or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're successful scares, and since the film allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves an engaging and entertaining
