Generally speaking, I've had my fill of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category feels mostly depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for months. However, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations turning out remarkably entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Character Development
Among the film's greatest assets lies in the superb rhythm. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence in which a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted when a vehicle crashes into the guest area. Out of the van, a very zombie-like stranger emerges and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense scene is immediately succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to see the family before the disaster struck.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough opportunity to get to know its main characters before the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably caused a rift between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and he enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household patriarch consists of Nes' father, who runs a popular natural medicine company named Wani Waras, and he appears to care about only two aspects: his work and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics and their personal conflicts that I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a negative, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a significant portion of the film depicting us who each family member is, plus the ways they add to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing traits allowed the audience to relate to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style that often presents characters only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a real shock once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and the multiple family interactions in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to making a sudden turn toward "holy shit" territory. These early moments don't focus too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides enough time to immerse in its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing reason regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the cause for this contagious disease originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the movie had spent additional time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the lack of background, the impact this affliction produces on people proves utterly repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's undead are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold choice, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also quite convincing, and are practically guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
Even better than the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, we see some instances of dubious decision-making (like any typical zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick an undead in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with whatever heavy object they find rather than freezing like prey caught in lights as death nears.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, which was a pleasantly realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for everything! cliché often seen in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes loves her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they agree over the phone to meet up at a nearby location. However, once Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been building for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try to promote the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments when these characters express gratitude toward one another feel far more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound message about family or community, either. Instead, it's mostly serving up frights. But they're effective frights, and because the movie gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
