Typically, I've had my fill of zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, this category seems mostly exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, Netflix's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Character Growth
One of the film's strongest strengths is its excellent pacing. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly interrupted by a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like individual stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This intense moment is then followed by a flashback, allowing us to see this household before the tragedy struck.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir truly allows viewers sufficient time to get to know the primary characters before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a married mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably led to a rift among Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and he loves gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to her. The family head consists of her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and who seems to care about only two aspects: his business and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed with this household's issues along with their personal conflicts that I almost forgot I was watching a scary movie—something that could sound like a negative, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of the film to showing viewers the identity of every family member represents, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This focus on clashing traits allowed the audience to relate to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—a rare feat in a genre that often presents characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to devour, thus it's a real shock when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama featuring slightly dark humor prior to making a sudden turn toward shocking territory. These introductory moments don't focus too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives enough opportunity to immerse in the setting before everything gets upended.
Original Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause for this contagious disease originates in a new batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film devoted additional focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal elixir which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the impact this affliction has on humans proves utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's undead are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a bold choice, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also very realistic, and they're almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
Even better compared to the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Of course, there are some examples of dubious decision-making (like any typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives are inventive and sharp. They also aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument is available rather than standing still like a deer caught in lights as death nears.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord when people start turning into zombies, this proved a welcome realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes loves her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still clinging to resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they agree via telephone to meet up at a close spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been building over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—seem authentic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This makes the moments where these individuals express appreciation toward one another seem much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound message regarding relatives or society, either. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are effective frights, and since the film allows every personality enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
