Generally speaking, I've grown tired of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre feels mostly exhausted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. But, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations turning out remarkably entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Character Development
One of this movie's strongest strengths is its superb rhythm. It begins using a striking initial scene in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly interrupted by a vehicle crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual emerges and begins assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic moment is then succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to see this household prior to the disaster occurred.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir truly allows the audience sufficient opportunity to get to know its main characters prior to the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former best friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably led to a falling out between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who loves gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch consists of her dad, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two aspects: his business and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves extremely tense.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed with this household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost overlooked this was a scary movie—something that could sound like a drawback, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a significant amount of its runtime depicting viewers who each relative represents, and how they add to the general turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting personalities allowed me to connect to the personalities enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare feat for this style that often introduces individuals only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a real surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and various household exchanges actually evoke the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor prior to making a sudden turn into "holy shit" territory. These introductory moments don't focus too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to settle into the setting before it gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
The film also offers a fairly interesting reason regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition stems from a new sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. Although we do learn a bit about its origins, I wish the film devoted additional time on how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a lethal potion that appears to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the limited context, the effect this condition has on people is absolutely disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a daring choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also quite realistic, and they're almost certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are some examples of questionable choices (like any any good zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to kick an undead in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with the nearest heavy object is available instead of standing still like prey in headlights as death approaches.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a welcome authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem realistic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to promote the notion that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This makes those instances where these individuals do show appreciation toward one another seem much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound insight about family or society, either. Rather, it's mostly serving up scares. Yet these are effective frights, and because the movie gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result proves a captivating and enjoyable
