Generally speaking, I've grown tired of zombie movies. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category seems mostly exhausted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. But, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations turning out remarkably entertaining.
Impressive Pacing and Personal Growth
Among this movie's greatest strengths is its superb pacing. It kicks off using a memorable opening sequence where a calm family party is violently interrupted by a van plows into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual emerges and begins assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then followed by a look back, allowing us to see the family prior to the disaster occurred.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly gives viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother whose former best friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably led to a rift among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and he enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on Nes. This household head consists of her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on only two aspects: his work and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so engrossed with this household's issues along with their personal conflicts that I almost forgot I was watching a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, but in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of the film depicting viewers the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they add to the overall dysfunction. This focus on clashing personalities enabled the audience to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare feat for this style that often introduces individuals only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to consume, so it's a real surprise when things finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and various family interactions actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a K-Drama with slightly dark comedy prior to making a sudden shift toward shocking territory. These introductory scenes don't focus as much on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides sufficient time to immerse in the setting prior to it gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Source
This movie also offers a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the cause for this contagious disease originates in a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. Although 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 supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir which seems to contain a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited background, the impact this condition has on humans proves absolutely disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a bold choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and they're practically certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
Even better than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, there are some examples of dubious choices (as in typical zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with the nearest heavy object they find instead of standing still like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning to the undead, which was a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for everything! cliché frequently used in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they decide over the phone to meet up at a close location. However, once Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been building for years. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to push the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters express appreciation for each other feel far more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound insight about family or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily delivering scares. Yet these are successful scares, and because the movie gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is an engaging and enjoyable
