Generally speaking, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems mostly depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. However, Netflix's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations and proved quite entertaining.
Excellent Pacing and Character Development
One of the film's strongest strengths lies in the excellent rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable opening sequence in which a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking stranger emerges and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately followed by a flashback, allowing us to see this household before the tragedy struck.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir actually allows the audience enough opportunity to get to know the primary characters before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a married mother with a former best friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured yet socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household head consists of Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he seems to care about only two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed with this family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama that I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a drawback, but in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of its runtime depicting us the identity of every family member is, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled me to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat for this style that often introduces characters just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine shock once events finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and various family interactions in fact evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy before taking a sudden shift toward shocking ground. These introductory moments don't focus too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still provides sufficient time to settle into the setting prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a new sample of 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 time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to producing a deadly elixir which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this affliction produces on humans proves utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a bold choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also very realistic, and are practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see some examples of questionable decision-making (as in typical undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with whatever heavy object is available instead of standing still like prey caught in lights as death nears.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, this proved a pleasantly realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains holding onto bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they decide via telephone to meet up at a close location. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been building for years. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem authentic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes those instances when these characters express appreciation for each other seem much more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound insight regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up frights. Yet these are effective frights, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is a captivating and entertaining
