Generally speaking, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category feels mostly exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for months. However, Netflix's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated and proved remarkably entertaining.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Growth
One of the film's greatest assets lies in the superb rhythm. It kicks off with a striking initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly disrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like individual stumbles out and begins attacking the partygoers. This dramatic scene is immediately succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to see this household before the tragedy struck.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough opportunity to get to know the primary personalities prior to the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother whose former best friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably caused a falling out between the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. The family head consists of Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and who seems to care about only two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so invested with this family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts that I nearly forgot this was a horror film—something that could sound like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a significant amount of the film to showing us the identity of every relative is, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits allowed the audience to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare feat in a genre that often presents individuals only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to consume, so it's a genuine surprise once events finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and various household exchanges actually evoke the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking an abrupt turn into shocking territory. These introductory moments don't focus as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives enough time to immerse in its world prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a recent sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. While we do learn something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film devoted a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir that appears to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the lack of background, the effect this affliction has on people is utterly repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a daring decision, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear very realistic, and they're almost guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better compared to the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of questionable decision-making (like any typical undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick an undead in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with whatever heavy object they find rather than freezing like a deer in headlights while danger nears.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people begin transforming into zombies, which was a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for everything! cliché often seen in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still holding onto resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they decide over the phone to meet up at a nearby location. But when Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem realistic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This makes the moments where these individuals do show appreciation toward one another seem far more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message regarding relatives or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're effective scares, and because the film gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is an engaging and enjoyable
