Typically, I'm over zombie movies. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category seems mostly depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. But, Netflix's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations and proved remarkably entertaining.
Excellent Rhythm and Personal Growth
One of this movie's strongest strengths lies in the excellent rhythm. It begins with a striking opening sequence where a calm family gathering gets suddenly disrupted by a vehicle crashes into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking stranger emerges proceeding attacking the attendees. This intense scene is immediately succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to observe the family before the tragedy struck.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough time to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former best friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has understandably led to a falling out between the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured yet socially awkward, and who enjoys gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch consists of Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on only two things: his business and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves extremely tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so invested in the household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot this was a horror film—which might sound like a negative, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a significant amount of the film to showing us who each relative represents, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting traits enabled me to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment in a genre which frequently introduces characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of zombies to consume, so it's a real shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and various family interactions in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking a sudden shift toward shocking ground. These introductory moments don't focus too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives enough opportunity to settle into its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the cause for this contagious disease stems from a new sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, I wish the film devoted a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to producing a lethal elixir which seems to include an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the lack of context, the impact this condition produces on people is utterly repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear very realistic, and they're almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
Even better than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see a few examples of dubious decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her family are inventive and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to strike an undead in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument they find instead of freezing like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord once individuals start turning to the undead, which was a welcome authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still clinging to resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. But when Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable because the film doesn't try to promote the notion that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This makes the moments where these individuals do show appreciation for each other feel far more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep message regarding relatives or society, either. Rather, it's mostly serving up frights. Yet these are successful frights, and since the movie gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves an engaging and entertaining
