For the most part, I'm over apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre feels largely depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, Netflix's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.
Superb Pacing and Personal Growth
Among the film's strongest assets lies in the excellent rhythm. It kicks off with a striking opening sequence in which a calm family gathering is violently interrupted by a van crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like stranger emerges proceeding attacking the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a look back, allowing us to see this household before the disaster struck.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir truly gives viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with its main personalities before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex close friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—an obviously awkward dynamic. This has understandably led to a rift between Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who loves playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. The family head consists of her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two things: his business and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so invested with this family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot this was a horror film—something that could sound like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a significant portion of the film to showing us the identity of every relative represents, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing traits enabled me to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently presents individuals just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for an army of the undead to devour, thus it's a genuine surprise when things eventually go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and various family interactions in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades like a Korean drama with somewhat morbid comedy before taking an abrupt shift toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered too heavily on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough time to settle into its world before it gets upended.
Original Infection Origin
The film also offers a fairly interesting reason for the source of the contagious zombification. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the source of this infectious condition stems from a new batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. Although we do learn a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the film had spent a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the limited background, the effect this condition produces on people is utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a bold decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
More impressive than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, there are some examples of questionable choices (like any typical zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument they find rather than freezing like a deer in headlights as death approaches.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord once individuals start turning to the undead, this proved a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains clinging to bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they agree over the phone to meet up at a nearby spot. But when Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the notion that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances when these characters express gratitude for each other feel far more genuine.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep insight about family or community, either. Instead, it's primarily delivering scares. Yet these are effective frights, and because the film allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is an engaging and enjoyable
