Generally speaking, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category feels largely depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations and proved remarkably entertaining.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Growth
Among this movie's greatest strengths is its excellent pacing. It begins using a memorable initial scene in which a calm family party is violently interrupted when a van plows into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding attacking the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately followed by a look back, giving viewers to see the family prior to the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir truly allows the audience sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a married mother with a ex close friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably led to a rift between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household head consists of her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and he seems focused on only two aspects: his work and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves incredibly tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so engrossed in the household's issues and their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked I was watching a scary movie—which might seem like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a significant amount of the film depicting viewers who each relative represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting personalities allowed the audience to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment for this style that often presents characters just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, disposable victims for an army of the undead to devour, thus it's a genuine surprise once events eventually go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and various household exchanges in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a Korean drama featuring slightly dark humor before taking a sudden shift toward shocking ground. These early scenes aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough time to settle into the setting prior to it gets upended.
Original Infection Origin
The film also offers a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease originates in a new sample of Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film devoted additional time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a lethal potion that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the limited background, the impact this condition has on people is absolutely disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's undead are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a daring choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear very realistic, and they're practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see some examples of questionable decision-making (as in typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to strike an undead in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available rather than freezing like prey in headlights as death nears.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord when people begin transforming into zombies, which was a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes loves her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close spot. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel realistic and understandable because the film doesn't try to push the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes those instances where these individuals express appreciation toward one another feel far more genuine.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep message about family or community, as well. Instead, it's mostly delivering scares. But they're effective frights, and since the film gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result proves a captivating and entertaining
