Typically, I'm over undead films. While favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre seems largely depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. However, Netflix's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out quite enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Character Development
Among this movie's greatest strengths is its excellent rhythm. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence in which a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted by a van crashes right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very zombie-like individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense moment is immediately succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to observe this household before the tragedy struck.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient opportunity to get to know the primary personalities prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose ex close friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and who enjoys playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household head consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two aspects: his work and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves incredibly strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so invested with this household's issues and their personal conflicts to the point I almost overlooked this was a scary movie—which might sound like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of the film depicting viewers the identity of every relative represents, plus the ways they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled me to relate to the personalities sufficiently to care about their outcome—a rare feat in a genre which frequently presents individuals just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to consume, so it's a real shock once events finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and the multiple family interactions in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a K-Drama with somewhat morbid humor prior to making a sudden shift toward shocking ground. These early moments don't focus as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to settle into the setting before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
This movie also offers a fairly intriguing reason for the source of the spreading transformation. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the cause for this infectious condition stems from a new batch from Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film had spent a little more focus on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir that appears to contain a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of background, the impact this affliction has on humans is utterly disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a bold decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and are almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are some examples of questionable decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with whatever heavy object is available instead of standing still like prey in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord when people start turning 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 all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still holding onto resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they agree over the phone to meet up at a close spot. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals do show appreciation toward one another seem far more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound message about family or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're effective frights, and since the film allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome is a captivating and entertaining
