For the most part, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. While favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre seems mostly depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out quite entertaining.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Growth
Among the film's greatest strengths is its superb pacing. It kicks off with a memorable opening sequence in which a calm family party is violently interrupted when a van crashes right into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding attacking the partygoers. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a look back, giving viewers to observe the family prior to the tragedy occurred.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough time to get to know the primary characters prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a ex best friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a rift among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured yet socially awkward, and who enjoys gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. The family head consists of Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he seems focused on only two aspects: his work and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so engrossed with this household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost overlooked this was a horror film—which might seem like a negative, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film depicting viewers who each family member is, plus the ways they add to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing personalities enabled the audience to connect with the characters enough to care about their outcome—a rare accomplishment for this style which frequently presents individuals only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a real surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and the multiple family interactions in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking a sudden turn into shocking ground. These early moments aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives enough opportunity to settle into the setting prior to it gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Source
The film also offers a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition originates in a recent batch from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. While we do learn something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the movie had spent a little more time explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the impact this affliction has on people is absolutely disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's undead prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear quite realistic, and they're practically guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
More impressive than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some examples of dubious choices (as in typical zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick an undead in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever heavy object is available instead of freezing like a deer 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 deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for everything! cliché often seen in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes loves her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains clinging to bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they agree over the phone to meet up at a nearby location. But when Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments when these characters express appreciation toward one another seem far more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound message regarding relatives or community, either. Rather, it's mostly serving up scares. But they're successful frights, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves a captivating and entertaining
