For the most part, I've grown tired of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre seems largely depleted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated turning out quite enjoyable.
Excellent Pacing and Personal Development
One of this movie's greatest assets lies in the excellent pacing. It begins with a memorable initial scene where a peaceful family party gets suddenly disrupted by a vehicle plows into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense moment is immediately followed by a look back, allowing us to see this household before the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough time to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a married mother with a former best friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and he loves gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. This household patriarch consists of her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on only two aspects: his business and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so invested with this household's issues along with their personal conflicts that I almost overlooked this was a horror film—which might seem like a negative, but in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of the film depicting us the identity of every relative is, and how they add to the overall dysfunction. This focus on conflicting traits enabled the audience to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment in a genre that often introduces individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to consume, so it's a genuine surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various household exchanges in fact evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a Korean drama with somewhat morbid humor prior to making a sudden shift into shocking territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to settle into the setting prior to it gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition stems from a recent sample of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. While some background is provided a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent a little more focus on how Wani Waras went from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this condition has on humans proves utterly repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and are almost guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better than the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of questionable choices (as in any good undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and sharp. They also aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people start turning to the undead, this proved a pleasantly realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for everything! trope 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's still holding onto resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they decide via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to push the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This causes the moments when these characters do show gratitude for each other seem much more genuine.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep message about family or society, either. Rather, it's mostly serving up scares. But they're successful frights, and since the movie gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves a captivating and entertaining
