Typically, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems mostly depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. But, Netflix's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out quite enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Personal Development
One of this movie's strongest strengths is its excellent pacing. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence in which a calm family gathering is violently disrupted when a van crashes into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking individual emerges and begins assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to see this household prior to the disaster occurred.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir truly gives the audience sufficient time to get to know the primary personalities before the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother whose former close friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably led to a falling out among Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and he loves playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on Nes. This household head consists of her dad, who runs a popular natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on just two aspects: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves extremely strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so engrossed with this family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, but in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of the film to showing us who each relative represents, plus the ways they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed me to connect to the personalities enough to care about their fate—a rare feat for this style that often introduces characters just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, disposable victims for an army of the undead to consume, so it's a genuine shock when things finally go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and various family interactions in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to making an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" ground. These early moments don't focus too heavily on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to immerse in its world prior to everything gets upended.
Unique Infection Origin
This movie also offers a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the source for this contagious disease originates in a new batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. While we do learn something regarding how it started, I wish the movie had spent additional time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion that appears to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the limited context, the impact this condition has on people is absolutely disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a bold choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very realistic, and they're almost guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are some examples of dubious decision-making (like any typical zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and sharp. They also aren't afraid to kick an undead in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available rather than freezing like a deer in headlights as death approaches.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict when people begin transforming into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they decide via telephone to meet up at a close spot. However, once Bang reveals 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 perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances when these characters express appreciation for each other feel far more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message regarding relatives or community, either. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. Yet these are effective scares, and because the film gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is an engaging and enjoyable
