Typically, I've had my fill of zombie movies. While favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category seems mostly depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.
Superb Pacing and Personal Development
Among the film's greatest strengths lies in the excellent pacing. It begins with a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic moment is then followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe the family before the disaster struck.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir truly allows viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with its main characters before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a ex best friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably led to a falling out among the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and he enjoys gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. The family head consists of Nes' father, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he appears focused on just two aspects: his work and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is extremely tense.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so invested with this family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts that I nearly overlooked this was a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of the film depicting us the identity of every relative is, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting traits allowed me to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre which frequently presents characters just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to devour, so it's a genuine surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and various family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a Korean drama with slightly dark humor prior to taking an abrupt shift toward shocking territory. These introductory scenes don't focus as much on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient time to settle into its world before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Source
The film additionally presents a quite interesting reason for the source of the spreading zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a new sample from Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, I wish the film had spent a little more time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to creating a lethal elixir which seems to include an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this affliction produces on humans is absolutely disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see some examples of dubious decision-making (as in typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument is available rather than standing still like a deer in headlights as death nears.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a welcome realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still clinging to bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they decide via telephone to regroup at a close location. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building for years. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to promote the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This makes the moments where these individuals express appreciation toward one another seem far more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound insight about family or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're effective scares, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
