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 feels largely depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Personal Growth
Among the film's strongest assets lies in the excellent rhythm. It begins with a striking initial scene where a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly interrupted when a vehicle plows into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like stranger stumbles out and begins attacking the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to see this household prior to the tragedy struck.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir truly gives viewers enough opportunity to become acquainted with its main characters before the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex close friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out among the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured but a bit inept socially, and he loves playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household patriarch consists of her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on only two aspects: his work and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves incredibly tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so engrossed in the household's issues and their personal conflicts to the point I nearly overlooked this was a scary movie—something that could sound like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a significant portion of the film depicting viewers who each family member is, and how they add to the overall dysfunction. This focus on clashing personalities enabled the audience to relate with the characters enough to care about their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style which frequently introduces individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to devour, so it's a genuine shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various household exchanges actually evoke the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor prior to taking a sudden shift into "holy shit" territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient opportunity to immerse in its world before it gets upended.
Unique Zombification Source
This movie also offers a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the source for this contagious disease stems from a recent sample from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. Although we do learn something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film had spent a little more time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a deadly elixir that appears to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of context, the impact this affliction produces on people proves utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and they're practically certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
Even better than the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, we see some examples of questionable choices (as in typical undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with whatever blunt instrument they find instead of freezing like prey caught in lights as death nears.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict when people start turning to the undead, this proved a welcome authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for everything! cliché frequently used in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes loves her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they agree over the phone to meet up at a nearby location. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel authentic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals express appreciation toward one another feel much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message about family or community, as well. Instead, it's mostly serving up frights. But they're effective scares, and because the movie gives each character enough room to grow and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result proves a captivating and entertaining
