For the most part, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre seems largely exhausted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Personal Development
Among the film's greatest assets is its excellent pacing. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family party is violently disrupted when a van crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking stranger emerges and begins assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic moment is then succeeded by a look back, allowing us to see this household before the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir actually allows the audience sufficient time to become acquainted with its main characters prior to the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has understandably led to a rift among the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured yet socially awkward, and he loves playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household patriarch is Nes' father, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on only two aspects: his work and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so engrossed with this household's issues and their personal conflicts that I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a drawback, but in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime depicting us who each relative represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This focus on clashing traits enabled the audience to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—a rare feat in a genre which frequently introduces characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to consume, so it's a genuine shock when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and various family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a Korean drama with somewhat morbid humor before taking an abrupt turn toward shocking territory. These early moments don't focus too heavily on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to immerse in its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a quite interesting reason for the source of the spreading transformation. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, I wish the film devoted a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a deadly potion that appears to include an extremely infectious virus. Despite the limited context, the impact this condition produces on humans proves utterly repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a daring decision, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear quite realistic, and are practically certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
Even better than the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Of course, we see a few instances of dubious choices (like any any good zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and sharp. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument is available rather than freezing like a deer in headlights while danger nears.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes loves her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains holding onto bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. But when Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments when these characters do show gratitude toward one another seem far more genuine.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound insight about family or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up scares. Yet these are successful frights, and because the film allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
