For the most part, I've grown tired of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, this category feels mostly exhausted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for months. However, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations turning out remarkably entertaining.
Impressive Pacing and Character Growth
Among the film's strongest assets lies in the excellent rhythm. It begins using a memorable opening sequence where a peaceful family party is violently interrupted when a van plows right into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual emerges and begins attacking the attendees. This dramatic scene is immediately followed by a look back, allowing us to observe this household before the tragedy struck.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with its main characters before the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably led to a rift between the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured yet socially awkward, and who enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household patriarch is her dad, who runs a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two aspects: his business and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so invested in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama that I almost overlooked this was a horror film—something that could sound like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of the film depicting viewers the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they add to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled the audience to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment for this style that often introduces characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to consume, so it's a real shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and various family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring slightly dark humor before taking a sudden turn toward shocking territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to immerse in its world prior to it gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Source
This movie also offers a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this infectious condition stems from a new batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. While some background is provided a bit about its origins, I wish the movie devoted a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to producing a deadly potion that appears to contain a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of context, the impact this affliction has on people proves utterly repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's undead are quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a bold decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also quite realistic, and are practically certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive than the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some examples of questionable decision-making (like any typical zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like prey in headlights while danger nears.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they agree over the phone to meet up at a close location. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and relatable because the film doesn't try to promote the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters do show appreciation for each other feel much more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep message about family or society, either. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're successful scares, and because the film allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result proves a captivating and entertaining
