Typically, I've grown tired of zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre seems mostly depleted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. However, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Character Growth
Among this movie's greatest strengths is its superb pacing. It kicks off with a striking initial scene in which a calm family party gets suddenly interrupted when a vehicle plows into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual emerges proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic moment is immediately succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to observe the family before the disaster occurred.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually allows the audience sufficient opportunity to get to know the primary personalities before the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose former best friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—a clearly awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably caused a rift between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and who loves playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on Nes. The family head is her dad, the owner of a well-known natural medicine company named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on only two aspects: his work and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so invested in the household's issues along with their personal conflicts that I almost overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could sound like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a significant amount of the film depicting viewers who each family member represents, and how they contribute to the general turmoil. This focus on clashing traits allowed the audience to relate with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat for this style that often presents characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a genuine shock when things finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple family interactions in fact evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid humor prior to making a sudden shift toward shocking ground. These introductory moments don't focus as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough time to settle into its world prior to everything gets upended.
Unique Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a quite intriguing reason regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Instead of a unintended lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a new batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. While we do learn something regarding how it started, I wish the movie had spent additional focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the lack of context, the impact this affliction has on people proves absolutely repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring decision, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also very convincing, and are practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see some examples of dubious decision-making (like any typical zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights as death approaches.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning to the undead, which was a welcome 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!" trope frequently used in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes loves her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree over the phone to meet up at a nearby spot. But when Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to promote the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals express gratitude for each other seem much more genuine.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight about family or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily delivering scares. Yet these are successful frights, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
