Generally speaking, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre seems mostly exhausted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out quite entertaining.
Impressive Pacing and Personal Growth
Among the film's greatest strengths lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene in which a calm family gathering is violently disrupted by a van plows into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like individual stumbles out proceeding attacking the partygoers. This dramatic moment is then succeeded by a look back, allowing us to observe this household before the disaster occurred.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir actually allows the audience sufficient time to get to know its main personalities prior to the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a former best friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. This has understandably led to a falling out among the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who loves playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. The family head is Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on just two aspects: his work and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so invested in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama that I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—something that could sound like a drawback, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of its runtime depicting us the identity of every relative represents, plus the ways they add to the overall dysfunction. This focus on clashing personalities allowed the audience to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare feat for this style which frequently presents characters only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine surprise when things finally go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades as a Korean drama featuring slightly dark humor prior to making a sudden turn toward "holy shit" ground. These early scenes don't focus as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives sufficient time to settle into the setting prior to it gets upended.
Unique Zombification Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this contagious disease originates in a new batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the impact this affliction produces on people is utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a bold choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear quite realistic, and are practically 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 decision-making (like any any good zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument they find rather than standing still like prey caught in lights while danger nears.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people start turning to the undead, which was a welcome authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for everything! cliché often seen in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes loves her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still holding onto resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a close location. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to push the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This causes those instances when these characters express gratitude toward one another seem much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep insight regarding relatives or community, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up scares. Yet these are effective frights, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable
