Generally speaking, I've grown tired of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, this category feels largely exhausted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out quite entertaining.
Superb Pacing and Character Growth
Among the film's strongest assets is its excellent rhythm. It begins using a striking initial scene in which a calm family party is violently disrupted when a van crashes right into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger emerges proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense moment is then followed by a look back, allowing us to see the family before the tragedy struck.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with the primary personalities prior to the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former best friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. Naturally, this has understandably caused a rift among Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured yet socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. The family patriarch consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two things: his work and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is extremely tense.
Invested in the Drama
I became so engrossed in the household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly overlooked this was a scary movie—something that could seem like a drawback, but in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of its runtime depicting us the identity of every family member represents, plus the ways they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting personalities allowed the audience to connect to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare feat in a genre which frequently introduces individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a real shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a K-Drama featuring slightly dark comedy prior to taking a sudden turn into shocking ground. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives sufficient time to immerse in its world before it gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Source
The film additionally presents a fairly interesting reason regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the source of this infectious condition stems from a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While some background is provided a bit about how it started, I wish the film devoted a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to creating a lethal elixir which seems to contain a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of context, the impact this affliction produces on people is absolutely repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a bold choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear very convincing, and are almost guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of questionable decision-making (as in typical undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives are inventive and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument they find rather than standing still like a deer caught in lights as death approaches.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a pleasantly authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel authentic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the idea that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals do show appreciation toward one another seem much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering scares. Yet these are successful scares, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
