Generally speaking, I'm over undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, this category seems mostly exhausted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated turning out quite enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Character Growth
Among this movie's strongest assets lies in the excellent rhythm. It begins using a memorable initial scene where a calm family gathering gets suddenly disrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking individual emerges proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then followed by a flashback, allowing us to see the family before the tragedy occurred.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly allows the audience sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a ex best friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—a clearly awkward situation. This has understandably led to a falling out between the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured but a bit inept socially, and he loves playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on Nes. The family patriarch consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on only two things: his work and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is extremely tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so invested with this household's issues along with their personal conflicts to the point I almost forgot this was a horror film—something that could sound like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every family member represents, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This focus on conflicting traits allowed the audience to relate with the characters enough to care about their fate—a rare accomplishment in a genre that often introduces characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to consume, thus it's a genuine shock once events eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and various household exchanges in fact evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a Korean drama with somewhat morbid humor prior to making a sudden turn toward shocking territory. These early moments don't focus as much on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient opportunity to settle into the setting prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Source
This movie also offers a fairly interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease originates in a recent batch from Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. Although some background is provided a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the movie had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to creating a lethal elixir which seems to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the limited background, the effect this affliction has on humans is utterly repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's undead are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a bold decision, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and they're practically certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few examples of dubious choices (as in any good undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike an undead in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with whatever heavy object is available rather than freezing like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict when people start turning into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains clinging to resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they decide via telephone to meet up at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem authentic and understandable because the film doesn't try to push the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals do show 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 isn't really presenting some profound insight regarding relatives or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up scares. Yet these are effective frights, and since the film gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and entertaining
