Typically, I'm over apocalyptic horror. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems largely depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. But, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated and proved quite entertaining.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Development
Among this movie's greatest strengths lies in the excellent pacing. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family party gets suddenly disrupted by a vehicle plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like stranger emerges and begins attacking the attendees. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to observe the family before the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually allows the audience sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters before the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a former best friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. This has predictably caused a rift between the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured but a bit inept socially, and who loves playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently been unfaithful to her. The family patriarch is her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and he seems focused on just two aspects: his business and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves extremely strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so invested in the household's issues and their personal conflicts that I almost overlooked this was a horror film—something that could seem like a negative, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of its runtime depicting us who each relative represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing personalities allowed the audience to connect with the characters sufficiently to care about their fate—a rare feat for this style that often presents characters just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to consume, so it's a genuine surprise once events finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a story that masquerades as a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to making a sudden turn toward "holy shit" territory. These early moments aren't centered too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough time to settle into the setting before everything gets upended.
Unique Infection Source
The film additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source for this infectious condition originates in a new batch from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the film devoted a little more time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir which seems to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the limited background, the impact this condition produces on humans proves utterly repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's undead prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a bold choice, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive than the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of dubious choices (like any any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and sharp. They also don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever heavy object they find rather than standing still like a deer caught in lights as death nears.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord once individuals start turning to the undead, 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 all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains holding onto resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide over the phone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and understandable because the film doesn't try to push the idea that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This causes those instances where these individuals express appreciation for each other feel much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep insight regarding relatives or community, as well. Instead, it's mostly delivering frights. Yet these are successful scares, and because the film allows every personality enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
