For the most part, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category seems mostly depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. However, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out quite entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Development
One of the film's strongest assets is its excellent pacing. It begins using a memorable initial scene where a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly disrupted by a van plows right into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking stranger stumbles out and begins attacking the partygoers. This intense scene is immediately succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to see the family before the tragedy struck.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir truly gives viewers sufficient opportunity to get to know its main personalities before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a former close friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably led to a falling out between the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and he enjoys gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on Nes. The family head consists of her dad, the owner of a popular natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on just two aspects: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed in the household's issues along with their personal conflicts that I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a drawback, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir spends a significant portion of the film depicting us the identity of every family member represents, plus the ways they add to the general turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting personalities enabled the audience to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat in a genre that often presents characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, disposable victims for an army of the undead to devour, thus it's a genuine shock once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and the multiple family interactions in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama with slightly dark comedy prior to making a sudden shift toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered too heavily on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to settle into the setting prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Origin
The film also offers a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Instead of an accidental lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition stems from a new sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. While we do learn a bit about its origins, I wish the film had spent additional time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to producing a deadly potion that appears to contain an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the impact this affliction produces on humans is absolutely disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a daring choice, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also quite convincing, and are almost certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see a few instances of questionable decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with the nearest heavy object is available instead of freezing like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict when people start turning into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they agree via telephone to regroup at a close location. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—seem realistic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to push the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments when these characters do show gratitude toward one another seem much more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep message regarding relatives or society, either. Rather, it's mostly serving up frights. But they're effective frights, and since the film gives each character sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and entertaining
