For the most part, I'm over zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre seems largely depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. But, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations turning out remarkably entertaining.
Excellent Pacing and Character Growth
One of the film's strongest assets is its superb rhythm. It begins using a memorable opening sequence in which a peaceful family party is violently interrupted when a van crashes into the guest area. Out of the van, a very zombie-like individual emerges proceeding assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is then followed by a flashback, giving viewers to see this household prior to the tragedy struck.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly gives the audience enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters before the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously awkward dynamic. This has predictably caused a falling out among the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. This household head consists of her dad, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he seems to care about only two things: his business and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves incredibly tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts to the point I nearly overlooked this was a scary movie—which might sound like a negative, but in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of the film to showing us the identity of every relative is, and how they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed the audience to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare feat for this style that often introduces individuals just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of the undead to devour, so it's a genuine surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and the multiple household exchanges in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades like a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy before making a sudden shift toward "holy shit" territory. These early scenes aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives enough opportunity to immerse in the setting before it gets upended.
Original Infection Source
The film also offers a fairly interesting explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the cause for this contagious disease stems from a recent sample from Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. While we do learn something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the movie had spent a little more time explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to producing a lethal potion which seems to include an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the impact this affliction has on humans proves utterly disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear quite realistic, and are almost guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better compared to the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few examples of dubious decision-making (like any any good undead film), however generally, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and sharp. They also don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like prey in headlights as death approaches.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord when people begin transforming to the undead, this proved a welcome realistic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes loves her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close location. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This makes the moments where these individuals do show appreciation for each other seem far more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep message about family or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are successful scares, and since the movie allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is a captivating and enjoyable
