For the most part, I've had my fill of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems mostly exhausted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated and proved quite entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Development
One of this movie's strongest assets is its superb rhythm. It begins using a memorable initial scene where a calm family gathering is violently disrupted when a vehicle crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual emerges and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense moment is then succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to see the family before the disaster struck.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough time to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the chaos begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—a clearly awkward situation. Naturally, this has predictably led to a falling out between Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured but a bit inept socially, and he loves gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household head is Nes' father, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he appears focused on only two aspects: his business and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so invested with this family's dynamics and their personal conflicts to the point I nearly overlooked this was a horror film—something that could seem like a negative, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a significant amount of the film depicting viewers who each family member is, plus the ways they contribute to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting personalities enabled me to connect to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style that often presents individuals only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, disposable victims for an army of zombies to consume, thus it's a real surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring slightly dark humor before making an abrupt turn into "holy shit" ground. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to immerse in its world before everything gets upended.
Original Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a quite interesting explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the source for this contagious disease stems from a new sample of Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. Although we do learn something regarding its origins, I wish the film had spent a little more time explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to creating a deadly elixir that appears to contain an extremely infectious virus. Despite the lack of background, the effect this affliction has on humans proves utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a bold choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and they're practically certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
More impressive than the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, we see some instances of dubious decision-making (as in any good undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument is available rather than standing still like prey caught in lights as death approaches.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict once individuals start turning to the undead, which was a welcome authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for everything! trope often seen in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still clinging to resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree via telephone to meet up at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building for years. Nes is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and relatable because the film doesn't try to push the notion that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This makes the moments when these characters express appreciation toward one another seem far more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound message regarding relatives or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering scares. But they're successful frights, and because the film gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves a captivating and enjoyable
