Generally speaking, I've had my fill of zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre feels mostly depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for months. But, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Personal Growth
One of the film's strongest strengths lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off with a striking opening sequence where a calm family party gets suddenly disrupted by a vehicle plows right into the guest area. Out of the van, a very zombie-like stranger stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense scene is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe this household prior to the disaster occurred.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough time to get to know its main characters before the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother whose former close friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable situation. This has understandably led to a rift among Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and he loves playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on her. This household head is Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two aspects: his work and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is extremely strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so engrossed in the household's issues and their personal conflicts to the point I nearly forgot I was watching a scary movie—something that could seem like a drawback, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of the film depicting us the identity of every relative is, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting personalities enabled me to relate to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—a rare feat for this style that often introduces characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of zombies to devour, so it's a genuine surprise once events finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and various family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to making a sudden shift toward shocking territory. These introductory scenes aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient opportunity to settle into the setting prior to everything gets upended.
Original Infection Source
This movie also offers a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition stems from a recent sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. While we do learn something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a lethal elixir which seems to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the lack of context, the effect this condition produces on people proves utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a bold choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear quite realistic, and they're practically certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
Even better than the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some examples of dubious decision-making (as in typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, pierce 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.
Realistic Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, this proved 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 everything! trope frequently used in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes loves her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they agree via telephone to meet up at a close spot. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been building for years. Nes is not flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—seem realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters express gratitude toward one another seem far more sincere.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound insight regarding relatives or society, either. Instead, it's primarily serving up scares. But they're effective frights, and because the movie gives each character enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable
