For the most part, I'm over apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre seems largely depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated turning out quite enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Personal Development
One of this movie's strongest assets is its superb rhythm. It begins with a striking initial scene where a peaceful family party gets suddenly disrupted by a vehicle plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking stranger emerges proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a flashback, allowing us to observe this household prior to the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir truly gives viewers enough time to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a married mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably led to a rift between the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured but a bit inept socially, and who loves gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to her. The family head is her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two aspects: his business and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot I was watching a scary movie—something that could seem like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film depicting us who each family member is, plus the ways they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed the audience to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare feat in a genre which frequently presents individuals just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine surprise when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple family interactions in fact evoke the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a K-Drama with somewhat morbid humor prior to making a sudden shift toward "holy shit" territory. These early moments don't focus too heavily on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough opportunity to settle into the setting prior to it gets upended.
Original Zombification Origin
The film additionally presents a quite interesting reason for the source of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the source for this contagious disease originates in a new batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. Although we do learn something regarding how it started, I wish the film devoted a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this condition has on humans proves absolutely disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and are almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better than the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Of course, there are some instances of questionable choices (as in typical undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick an undead in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available instead of standing still like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord when people begin transforming into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes loves her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still clinging to resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they agree via telephone to meet up at a nearby location. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters do show appreciation toward one another feel far more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep insight about family or society, as well. Rather, it's mostly delivering scares. But they're successful scares, and since the film gives each character sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result is an engaging and enjoyable
