Generally speaking, I'm over apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre feels mostly depleted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for months. But, Netflix's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out remarkably entertaining.
Superb Pacing and Personal Growth
One of this movie's greatest assets lies in the excellent rhythm. It begins using a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly disrupted when a vehicle plows right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger emerges and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense scene is immediately succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to see this household prior to the tragedy occurred.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly allows viewers sufficient opportunity to get to know its main personalities before the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a married mother with a ex close friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—a clearly awkward situation. This has understandably caused a falling out among the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who loves playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on Nes. This household head is Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and who appears to care about just two aspects: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves incredibly strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed in the household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost overlooked I was watching a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime depicting viewers who each family member is, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This focus on clashing traits enabled me to connect with the characters sufficiently to care about their fate—an uncommon feat for this style which frequently presents individuals just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to consume, thus it's a real surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and various family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a Korean drama with slightly dark comedy prior to making an abrupt shift into "holy shit" territory. These introductory scenes don't focus as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives enough opportunity to immerse in its world prior to it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
The film also offers a fairly intriguing reason regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the source for this contagious disease stems from a recent sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. Although we do learn something regarding its origins, I wish the film devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the limited background, the effect this affliction has on humans is utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a daring decision, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also very realistic, and they're practically guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
More impressive than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see some instances of questionable decision-making (like any typical zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument is available rather than freezing like prey in headlights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord when people 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 so I instantly forgive you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains holding onto bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close location. However, once Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to promote the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This causes the moments where these individuals express gratitude toward one another feel much more sincere.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep insight about family or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are effective frights, and since the movie gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and entertaining
