For the most part, I'm over undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre seems largely depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for months. However, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Growth
Among the film's strongest assets is its superb rhythm. It begins using a memorable opening sequence in which a peaceful family party is violently interrupted by a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very zombie-like stranger emerges proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic scene is immediately succeeded by a look back, allowing us to observe this household before the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a married mother with a former close friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—a clearly awkward dynamic. This has understandably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and who enjoys gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household head is Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he seems to care about only two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves extremely tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so invested with this family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked this was a scary movie—which might seem like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of its runtime to showing viewers who each family member is, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled me to relate with the characters sufficiently to care about their fate—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently presents individuals just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to consume, so it's a genuine shock when things eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a Korean drama with slightly dark comedy prior to taking an abrupt shift into shocking ground. These early moments don't focus too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough time to settle into the setting before it gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Source
The film also offers a quite intriguing reason for the source of the contagious zombification. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition originates in a new batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. While we do learn a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the film devoted a little more time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a lethal potion that appears to include a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the limited context, the impact this condition has on humans is absolutely repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring decision, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and are practically guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive compared to the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see some instances of dubious choices (as in typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument is available rather than standing still like prey caught in lights as death approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for everything! cliché often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still clinging to resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they agree over the phone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters do show appreciation toward one another feel much more genuine.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep message about family or society, either. Instead, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're successful frights, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and entertaining
