For the most part, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, this category feels largely depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for months. But, Netflix's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out remarkably entertaining.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Growth
One of the film's strongest assets is its superb pacing. It begins using a striking opening sequence in which a calm family party gets suddenly disrupted when a van crashes into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual stumbles out and begins assaulting the attendees. This intense moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, allowing us to see the family before the disaster occurred.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient time to get to know the primary characters before the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex close friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—a clearly awkward situation. This has predictably caused a rift between the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and he enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. The family head consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on only two things: his work and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed in the household's issues and their personal conflicts that I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of the film depicting us the identity of every family member is, and how they add to the overall dysfunction. This focus on conflicting personalities enabled the audience to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style that often presents individuals just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a real surprise once events finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a K-Drama with somewhat morbid humor before taking a sudden shift toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient opportunity to immerse in the setting before it gets upended.
Unique Zombification Source
This movie also offers a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the source of this contagious disease originates in a new batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. While some background is provided a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent additional time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir that appears to contain an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this affliction produces on people is absolutely disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and are practically guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
More impressive than the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see a few examples of questionable decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives are inventive and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with whatever heavy object they find instead of freezing like prey in headlights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, this proved a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for everything! trope often seen in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they decide via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. But when Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been building for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable because the film doesn't try to promote the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters do show gratitude for each other feel far more genuine.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound insight about family or society, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up frights. But they're successful scares, and since the movie gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable
