Generally speaking, I've grown tired of zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, this category feels largely depleted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. But, Netflix's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out quite enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Growth
Among this movie's strongest assets is its excellent pacing. It begins using a memorable opening sequence in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly disrupted when a van crashes into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like individual stumbles out proceeding attacking the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe the family before the tragedy struck.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir truly gives viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary characters before the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. This has understandably led to a falling out between Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured yet socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on Nes. This household patriarch is her dad, who runs a well-known natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on only two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics and their personal conflicts to the point I nearly overlooked I was watching a scary movie—which might seem like a negative, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime depicting us the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they contribute to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on clashing personalities allowed me to relate with the characters enough to care about their outcome—an uncommon feat in a genre that often introduces individuals only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to devour, so it's a real surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and the multiple family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid humor before making an abrupt shift into shocking territory. These early scenes aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient opportunity to immerse in the setting prior to everything gets upended.
Unique Zombification Source
This movie additionally presents a quite interesting reason regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition stems from a recent sample from Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. Although we do learn a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the film devoted additional focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a lethal elixir which seems to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the limited background, the effect this condition has on people is utterly disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a bold decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also quite convincing, and are almost guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Of course, we see a few examples of questionable choices (as in typical zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her family are inventive and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument is available rather than standing still like a deer caught in lights while danger nears.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning to the undead, this proved a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for everything! cliché frequently used in apocalyptic films. 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 in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a close spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building for years. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This causes the moments where these individuals do show gratitude toward one another feel far more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound insight regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. Yet these are effective scares, and since the film gives each character enough room to grow and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable
