For the most part, I've had my fill of zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category feels largely depleted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out quite enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Personal Growth
One of the film's strongest assets lies in the excellent pacing. It begins with a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like stranger emerges and begins assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to see the family prior to the disaster struck.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough time to get to know its main characters prior to the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. This has predictably led to a falling out between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured yet socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on Nes. This household patriarch consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known natural medicine company named Wani Waras, and he appears to care about only two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so invested in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly overlooked this was a scary movie—which might sound like a drawback, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of the film depicting viewers who each family member represents, and how they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This focus on conflicting traits allowed me to relate with the characters enough to care about their outcome—an uncommon feat in a genre that often presents characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to devour, so it's a genuine surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and the multiple family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a K-Drama with somewhat morbid humor before taking an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still gives sufficient time to settle into the setting before it gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Origin
This movie also offers a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the cause for this infectious condition stems from a new sample of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the movie had spent a little more time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Despite the lack of context, the impact this condition produces on humans proves absolutely repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear very realistic, and are almost guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
Even better than the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few examples of questionable choices (like any any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument they find instead of freezing like prey caught in lights as death nears.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning to the undead, this proved a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide over the phone to meet up at a close location. But when Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This causes the moments when these characters express appreciation for each other feel far more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep insight regarding relatives or society, either. Rather, it's mostly serving up frights. Yet these are successful frights, and since the film gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable
