Typically, I've had my fill of undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category seems mostly depleted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. But, Netflix's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations and proved quite enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Personal Growth
One of this movie's strongest strengths lies in the superb rhythm. It begins using a memorable initial scene where a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly disrupted by a van plows into the guest area. Out of the van, a very zombie-like stranger stumbles out proceeding attacking the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a look back, giving viewers to see the family before the tragedy struck.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough opportunity to get to know its main personalities prior to the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother whose former best friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has understandably caused a falling out among the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who loves gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. The family patriarch consists of Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and who appears to care about only two things: his work and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so invested with this family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama that I almost overlooked this was a scary movie—which might sound like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of its runtime to showing viewers who each relative is, plus the ways they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled the audience to connect to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment in a genre which frequently presents individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to devour, so it's a real surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and the multiple family interactions in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy prior to making an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" ground. These early scenes aren't centered too heavily on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to settle into the setting before everything gets upended.
Unique Infection Source
The film additionally presents a fairly interesting reason for the source of the spreading transformation. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. While we do learn a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the movie devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal elixir which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of context, the impact this affliction produces on people proves absolutely disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are quick, 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 quite convincing, and they're practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, we see a few examples of questionable decision-making (as in typical undead film), but generally, Nes and her family are inventive and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument they find instead of standing still like a deer caught in lights while danger nears.
Believable Familial 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 frequently used in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes loves her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still clinging to bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they agree over the phone to meet up at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been building over time. Nes is not flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—feel realistic and understandable because the film doesn't try to promote the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This causes the moments when these characters do show appreciation for each other seem far more genuine.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound insight regarding relatives or community, as well. Instead, it's mostly delivering frights. Yet these are successful frights, and since the film gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome is a captivating and enjoyable
