Generally speaking, I'm over zombie movies. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category seems mostly depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. But, Netflix's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated and proved remarkably entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Character Growth
Among this movie's strongest assets is its superb rhythm. It kicks off with a striking opening sequence where a calm family gathering is violently interrupted when a van crashes right into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking stranger emerges and begins attacking the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe this household before the disaster occurred.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually allows the audience enough opportunity to become acquainted with its main personalities prior to the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a ex best friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has understandably led to a rift among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and who enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. This household patriarch consists of Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two aspects: his work and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves extremely strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so invested in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot this was a scary movie—which might sound like a negative, but in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a significant portion of its runtime to showing viewers the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed me to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat in a genre that often presents individuals only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to devour, so it's a real shock when things finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking a sudden shift toward "holy shit" territory. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient time to settle into the setting prior to it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing reason regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a recent sample from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While we do learn a bit about its origins, I wish the film had spent a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a lethal elixir which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the lack of context, the impact this affliction has on people proves utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a bold choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very realistic, and are almost guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better than the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some instances of questionable decision-making (like any any good zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available rather than freezing like a deer caught in lights as death approaches.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord when people start turning into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for everything! cliché frequently used in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still clinging to resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they agree via telephone to meet up at a close spot. But when Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals do show appreciation toward one another feel far more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound insight about family or society, 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 doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and entertaining
