For the most part, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. While favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, this category seems mostly depleted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. But, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out remarkably entertaining.
Excellent Pacing and Personal Development
Among this movie's strongest strengths is its superb pacing. It begins using a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted by a van plows into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like stranger emerges and begins assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, allowing us to observe this household prior to the disaster struck.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly allows viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary personalities prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex close friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably led to a rift among the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who loves playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and he seems to care about just two aspects: his business and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so invested with this household's issues and their personal conflicts that I almost overlooked this was a scary movie—which might seem like a negative, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film depicting viewers who each relative represents, plus the ways they add to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing personalities enabled the audience to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style that often introduces characters just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a genuine surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy prior to taking a sudden shift into "holy shit" territory. These early moments don't focus as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough time to settle into the setting prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
This movie also offers a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source of this contagious disease originates in a recent sample of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. While some background is provided a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the movie devoted a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion that appears to contain an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the limited background, the effect this condition has on people is absolutely disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also quite convincing, and are almost guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
Even better than the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see some instances of dubious choices (like any typical undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and sharp. They also don't hesitate to strike an undead in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever heavy object they find instead of standing still like a deer caught in lights as death nears.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict once individuals start turning to the undead, which was a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes loves her family and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they decide via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—seem authentic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals do show gratitude toward one another seem far more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep message regarding relatives or community, either. Rather, it's mostly serving up scares. Yet these are successful frights, and since the movie allows every personality sufficient space to grow and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the result is an engaging and enjoyable
