Typically, I've grown tired of zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems mostly depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for months. However, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations and proved quite entertaining.
Excellent Pacing and Character Growth
One of this movie's greatest strengths lies in the excellent pacing. It begins with a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family party gets suddenly interrupted when a vehicle plows into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This intense moment is then succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to observe this household before the tragedy occurred.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient opportunity to get to know its main characters before the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a married mother whose ex best friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably caused a rift between Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who enjoys playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household patriarch consists of Nes' father, who runs a well-known natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and who seems to care about just two things: his work and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves extremely tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so engrossed with this household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost overlooked I was watching a scary movie—something that could seem like a negative, but ultimately paid off. 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 general turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed me to relate with the characters enough to care about their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style which frequently presents characters just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to consume, so it's a real surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various household exchanges in fact evoke the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor before making an abrupt shift into "holy shit" territory. These introductory scenes don't focus too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient time to settle into the setting prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Origin
The film also offers a quite interesting reason regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the source of this infectious condition stems from a recent batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. Although some background is provided something regarding how it started, I wish the movie had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of holistic medicine to creating a lethal potion which seems to include an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the limited background, the effect this condition has on humans is absolutely disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a bold choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear very realistic, and they're almost guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
Even better than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of questionable choices (as in typical zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick an undead in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available instead of standing still like a deer in headlights while danger nears.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people begin transforming into zombies, which was a welcome authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for everything! cliché often seen in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they decide via telephone to meet up at a close spot. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—seem realistic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters express appreciation toward one another seem much more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep message about family or society, as well. Instead, it's mostly serving up scares. But they're effective frights, and because the film allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves an engaging and entertaining