Typically, I've had my fill of zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems mostly exhausted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations and proved remarkably entertaining.
Impressive Pacing and Character Development
Among the film's strongest strengths lies in the excellent rhythm. It begins using a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted when a vehicle plows into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual stumbles out proceeding attacking the attendees. This intense scene is then succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe this household before the disaster struck.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary personalities prior to the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably led to a falling out between the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and he loves gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch consists of her dad, who runs a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on just two things: his work and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves incredibly strained.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot this was a scary movie—something that could seem like a drawback, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of its runtime depicting viewers who each family member represents, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled me to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style which frequently presents characters only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a K-Drama featuring slightly dark comedy prior to taking a sudden shift toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory moments don't focus too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough time to settle into the setting before everything gets upended.
Unique Zombification Origin
The film also offers a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition stems from a new sample from Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. Although we do learn something regarding its origins, I wish the film devoted a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to creating a lethal potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the lack of background, the effect this affliction has on people proves absolutely disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring decision, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and they're almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive compared to the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some examples of questionable decision-making (like any typical undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument is available rather than freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger nears.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord when people begin transforming to the undead, this proved a pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains clinging to bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they decide via telephone to regroup at a close location. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and understandable because the film doesn't try to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This causes the moments where these individuals do show gratitude toward one another feel far more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep message regarding relatives or community, either. Instead, it's primarily delivering scares. Yet these are effective scares, and since the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the outcome is a captivating and enjoyable
