For the most part, I've had my fill of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems largely exhausted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. But, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Character Growth
Among this movie's strongest assets lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off with a striking opening sequence where a calm family gathering gets suddenly interrupted by a van plows into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to see the family before the disaster struck.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough time to get to know its main personalities prior to the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—an obviously awkward situation. Naturally, this has predictably led to a falling out between the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and he loves playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on Nes. This household head is Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and who appears focused on just two things: his business and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so invested with this family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts to the point I nearly forgot this was a scary movie—which might sound like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime depicting us who each relative is, and how they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled the audience to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare feat in a genre which frequently presents characters just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to consume, thus it's a real surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor prior to making a sudden turn into shocking ground. These early moments aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still gives sufficient time to settle into its world prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this contagious disease stems from a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding its origins, I wish the movie had spent a little more time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to creating a deadly potion which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the limited background, the effect this condition has on people is utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a bold decision, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also very realistic, and they're practically guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
Even better than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some instances of dubious decision-making (as in typical undead film), but generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and sharp. They also aren't afraid to strike an undead in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with whatever heavy object they find instead of freezing like prey caught in lights while danger nears.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for everything! cliché often seen in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they decide via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem realistic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to promote the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters express appreciation for each other feel much more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep message about family or society, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up scares. But they're effective frights, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is a captivating and enjoyable
