For the most part, I'm over undead films. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category feels largely depleted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. However, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations and proved remarkably entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Development
One of this movie's strongest strengths is its excellent pacing. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence in which a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly disrupted when a van plows right into the guest area. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out and begins assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then followed by a look back, allowing us to observe the family prior to the tragedy struck.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows the audience enough opportunity to become acquainted with its main characters before the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has understandably caused a falling out among the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who loves playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. The family patriarch is Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and who appears focused on just two aspects: his business and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is extremely tense.
Invested in the Drama
I became so invested in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama that I nearly forgot this was a scary movie—something that could sound like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film to showing viewers the identity of every relative represents, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities allowed me to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style that often presents characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to devour, so it's a real surprise once events finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various family interactions in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor prior to taking an abrupt turn into "holy shit" ground. These introductory scenes don't focus too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to immerse in the setting before it gets upended.
Original Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source of this contagious disease originates in a recent sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. While some background is provided a bit about how it started, I wish the film devoted a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to producing a deadly elixir which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the impact this affliction produces on humans proves utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and are almost certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
Even better than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are a few examples of questionable choices (as in typical zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick an undead in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with the nearest heavy object is available rather than standing still like a deer in headlights as death approaches.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people begin transforming into zombies, which was a welcome authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains clinging to resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been building over time. Nes is not flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—feel authentic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals do show gratitude for each other feel far more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep message about family or society, either. Rather, it's mostly delivering frights. But they're effective scares, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome is an engaging and entertaining
