Generally speaking, I've grown tired of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre seems largely depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for months. However, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Development
Among the film's greatest strengths is its superb rhythm. It kicks off with a memorable opening sequence in which a calm family party is violently disrupted by a vehicle plows right into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking individual stumbles out and begins attacking the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to observe the family before the disaster struck.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly allows viewers sufficient opportunity to get to know the primary personalities prior to the carnage begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has understandably led to a falling out among the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on Nes. This household head is Nes' father, the owner of a popular natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and who seems to care about just two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so invested in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot I was watching a horror film—something that could sound like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film depicting viewers the identity of every family member is, plus the ways they add to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting personalities enabled me to relate with the characters enough to care about their outcome—a rare accomplishment in a genre that often introduces individuals only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to consume, thus it's a real surprise when things eventually go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and various family interactions actually evoke the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a K-Drama with somewhat morbid humor prior to taking a sudden turn toward "holy shit" territory. These introductory scenes don't focus as much on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough time to settle into its world before everything gets upended.
Original Infection Origin
The film also offers a fairly interesting reason regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Instead of an accidental lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the source for this contagious disease stems from a recent batch from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. Although we do learn a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the movie had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir which seems to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this affliction produces on people proves utterly repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's undead prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a bold decision, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and are almost guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of dubious decision-making (as in typical undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with the nearest heavy object they find rather than standing still like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord when people start turning to the undead, which was a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for everything! cliché frequently used in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still holding onto resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they decide over the phone to regroup at a nearby location. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been building for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel realistic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This makes those instances when these characters express appreciation for each other seem much more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep message about family or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up scares. Yet these are successful scares, and because the movie gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
