For the most part, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category feels largely depleted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for months. However, Netflix's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations and proved remarkably entertaining.
Impressive Pacing and Personal Growth
Among this movie's greatest strengths is its superb pacing. It begins with a memorable opening sequence in which a calm family party is violently disrupted by a van plows right into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This dramatic moment is then succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe the family prior to the tragedy struck.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir truly allows viewers enough opportunity to get to know its main characters prior to the chaos begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—a clearly awkward dynamic. This has predictably caused a rift between Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured but a bit inept socially, and he enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on her. This household patriarch is her dad, who runs a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on just two things: his work and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so invested in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama that I almost forgot this was a scary movie—which might seem like a drawback, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every relative represents, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This focus on clashing traits enabled me to connect to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style that often introduces individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to devour, so it's a real surprise when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and the multiple household exchanges in fact evoke the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama with slightly dark comedy prior to taking an abrupt turn toward shocking ground. These early moments don't focus as much on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still provides sufficient opportunity to immerse in its world before it gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Source
The film additionally presents a quite interesting reason regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this infectious condition stems from a new sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. While we do learn a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir which seems to contain a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of context, the effect this affliction has on people is utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and they're almost certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, we see some examples of questionable decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike an undead in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with the nearest heavy object they find rather than standing still like prey in headlights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a welcome authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still holding onto resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree over the phone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been building over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This causes the moments when these characters express appreciation for each other seem much more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message regarding relatives or community, as well. Rather, it's mostly delivering scares. Yet these are successful scares, and since the movie gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is an engaging and entertaining
