For the most part, I've grown tired of undead films. While favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category seems mostly exhausted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations and proved remarkably entertaining.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Growth
One of this movie's strongest strengths is its superb pacing. It begins with a memorable opening sequence in which a peaceful family party gets suddenly interrupted when a van crashes into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking individual emerges and begins attacking the partygoers. This dramatic moment is then succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to see this household before the disaster struck.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir truly gives viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with its main personalities before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a married mother whose former best friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—a clearly awkward situation. Naturally, this has predictably led to a rift between Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and he enjoys gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on her. This household patriarch consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two aspects: his business and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed with this family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts to the point I nearly overlooked I was watching a scary movie—something that could sound like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of the film to showing viewers who each family member represents, and how they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting personalities enabled the audience to connect with the characters enough to care about their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style that often introduces characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a real shock once events eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and various family interactions actually evoke the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid humor before making an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" ground. These early moments don't focus too heavily on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient opportunity to settle into its world prior to everything gets upended.
Original Zombification Origin
The film additionally presents a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition stems from a recent batch from Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. Although some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the movie devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a lethal elixir which seems to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the limited background, the effect this affliction has on people proves absolutely repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a bold choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and they're practically certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of dubious choices (like any typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument they find rather than standing still like a deer caught in lights as death approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict when people begin transforming to the undead, this proved a pleasantly authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes loves her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they agree over the phone to meet up at a close location. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—seem realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the notion that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This causes those instances where these individuals express appreciation toward one another seem far more sincere.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound message about family or society, as well. Instead, it's primarily delivering frights. Yet these are effective scares, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to develop and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable
