Typically, I'm over undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems mostly depleted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. However, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Personal Development
One of this movie's greatest strengths lies in the excellent pacing. It kicks off with a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family party gets suddenly interrupted when a vehicle crashes into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking individual emerges and begins assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then followed by a flashback, giving viewers to see this household before the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient opportunity to get to know the primary personalities prior to the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a married mother whose former close friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out among the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured yet socially awkward, and he enjoys gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household head consists of her dad, who runs a well-known natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on only two aspects: his work and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves extremely tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so invested in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama that I almost forgot this was a horror film—something that could seem like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of its runtime to showing viewers who each relative is, plus the ways they add to the general turmoil. This focus on conflicting traits enabled the audience to connect to the personalities sufficiently to care about their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style which frequently introduces individuals only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a real surprise once events finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges in fact evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking an abrupt shift into "holy shit" territory. These introductory moments don't focus as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to immerse in its world prior to it gets upended.
Unique Zombification Source
This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting reason regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the cause for this infectious condition originates in a recent sample from Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. While some background is provided a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the film devoted a little more focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to creating a deadly potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Despite the limited context, the effect this condition has on humans proves absolutely repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring decision, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and are practically guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some instances of questionable choices (as in typical undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and sharp. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with the nearest heavy object they find rather than freezing like prey caught in lights while danger nears.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, which was a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still holding onto resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby location. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to promote the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals do show appreciation for each other seem much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's mostly delivering scares. But they're successful scares, and since the film gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
