Generally speaking, I'm over apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, this category seems largely depleted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. However, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated and proved quite entertaining.
Superb Pacing and Personal Growth
One of the film's greatest strengths is its superb rhythm. It kicks off with a striking initial scene where a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted when a van crashes into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense moment is immediately followed by a look back, giving viewers to see this household prior to the tragedy struck.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows the audience sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary characters before the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a former best friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable situation. This has understandably caused a rift among Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured yet socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on Nes. The family head consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he appears to care about only two things: his business and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked this was a horror film—something that could sound like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a significant amount of the film depicting us who each family member represents, and how they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits enabled me to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare feat in a genre which frequently introduces characters only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to consume, thus it's a real surprise when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to making a sudden shift into shocking ground. These introductory scenes don't focus too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to settle into its world before everything gets upended.
Unique Infection Source
This movie also offers a quite intriguing reason regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source for this infectious condition originates in a recent sample of Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. While we do learn a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the movie had spent additional time on how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of context, the effect this condition has on people is utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a bold decision, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also quite realistic, and they're almost guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some instances of dubious decision-making (like any any good undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument they find instead of standing still like prey in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict when people start turning to the undead, this proved a pleasantly realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still clinging to resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they decide via telephone to regroup at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem authentic and understandable because the film doesn't try to push the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments where these individuals do show appreciation toward one another seem far more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep message about family or society, either. Instead, it's primarily delivering scares. But they're effective scares, and because the movie allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
