For the most part, I'm over undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre seems largely depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. But, Netflix's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations and proved remarkably entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Growth
Among this movie's greatest strengths is its superb rhythm. It kicks off with a memorable opening sequence in which a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted when a van crashes into the guest area. Out of the van, a very zombie-like individual emerges and begins assaulting the attendees. This intense moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, allowing us to see the family prior to the tragedy struck.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough time to get to know the primary characters prior to the chaos begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former best friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. This has understandably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and he enjoys gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. The family head is Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who appears to care about just two aspects: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves extremely tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed with this household's issues along with their personal conflicts to the point I nearly forgot this was a scary movie—which might seem like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of the film depicting us the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed the audience to connect with the characters enough to care about their outcome—a rare accomplishment in a genre which frequently presents individuals only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to devour, thus it's a genuine surprise when things eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid humor prior to taking a sudden shift into shocking ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient opportunity to immerse in the setting prior to it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
The film also offers a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the source of this contagious disease originates in a new sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the movie had spent additional time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a lethal potion that appears to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the impact this condition has on people is utterly repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's undead prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also quite realistic, and are almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see a few examples of questionable decision-making (as in any good undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument they find rather than freezing like a deer caught in lights as death approaches.
Realistic Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a welcome realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they agree over the phone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals express appreciation toward one another feel far more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound message about family or society, either. Instead, it's mostly delivering frights. Yet these are successful scares, and since the movie gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and entertaining
