For the most part, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre seems mostly depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations and proved quite enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Personal Development
One of this movie's strongest strengths is its superb rhythm. It begins using a memorable initial scene in which a calm family party is violently interrupted by a vehicle plows right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a look back, giving viewers to see the family before the tragedy struck.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir truly gives the audience enough time to get to know the primary personalities prior to the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a married mother with a ex close friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably caused a falling out between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. This household head consists of her dad, who runs a well-known natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and he seems to care about just two things: his business and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so engrossed in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot I was watching a scary movie—which might sound like a negative, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every family member represents, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting traits allowed me to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style that often presents individuals only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine shock once events finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and the multiple household exchanges in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a Korean drama with slightly dark humor prior to taking a sudden turn toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory moments aren't centered too heavily on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides enough time to settle into the setting before everything gets upended.
Original Zombification Origin
This movie also offers a fairly intriguing reason for the source of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a new batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. While we do learn a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the movie had spent additional time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion which seems to include an extremely infectious virus. Despite the limited context, the effect this condition has on humans proves absolutely repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a bold choice, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear very convincing, and are practically certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some instances of dubious decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument they find instead of freezing like a deer in headlights while danger nears.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for everything! trope frequently used in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains clinging to bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they agree via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. 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 over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This makes those instances where these individuals do show appreciation for each other feel much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep message regarding relatives or society, either. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are successful scares, and since the movie allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and enjoyable