Typically, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems largely depleted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, Netflix's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Character Development
One of the film's strongest assets is its superb rhythm. It kicks off using a striking initial scene in which a calm family party is violently disrupted when a van crashes right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense moment is then succeeded by a look back, allowing us to observe the family prior to the disaster struck.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough time to get to know its main personalities prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a former close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and he loves gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. The family patriarch is her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he seems to care about just two aspects: his business and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves extremely strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so engrossed with this household's issues along with their personal conflicts to the point I almost overlooked this was a horror film—something that could seem like a drawback, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film to showing viewers the identity of every family member represents, plus the ways they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled me to relate with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat in a genre that often presents individuals just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to devour, so it's a genuine shock once events eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid humor before taking an abrupt shift into shocking ground. These introductory moments don't focus too heavily on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough time to immerse in its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Origin
The film also offers a quite intriguing reason regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Instead of a unintended lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition stems from a recent batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, I wish the film devoted a little more focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion which seems to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the limited context, the impact this affliction produces on people proves absolutely repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a bold choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and are almost guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better than the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few examples of questionable choices (as in typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her family are inventive and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with whatever heavy object is available instead of freezing like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a welcome authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and cares about 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 decide via telephone to meet up at a close spot. However, once Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This makes those instances where these individuals do show gratitude toward one another seem much more sincere.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep message regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering scares. Yet these are effective scares, and since the film gives each character sufficient space to grow and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the outcome proves a captivating and entertaining
