Typically, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre seems largely depleted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Pacing and Personal Development
One of this movie's greatest strengths lies in the excellent rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly interrupted when a van crashes right into the guest area. Out of the van, a very zombie-like individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This intense scene is then followed by a look back, allowing us to see the family prior to the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually gives the audience sufficient opportunity to get to know its main characters prior to the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—an obviously awkward situation. This has predictably led to a falling out between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who loves gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch is Nes' father, the owner of a popular natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on just two aspects: his business and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely tense.
Invested in the Drama
I became so invested in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a negative, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film to showing viewers the identity of every relative represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing personalities allowed me to connect to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—a rare feat in a genre which frequently presents characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to consume, thus it's a genuine surprise once events eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking a sudden turn toward shocking territory. These early scenes aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides enough opportunity to settle into the setting before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
The film also offers a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading transformation. Instead of a unintended lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause for this contagious disease stems from a new sample of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although we do learn a bit about its origins, I wish the film had spent additional time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of context, the impact this affliction has on people is utterly repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's undead prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and are practically certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
More impressive than the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some examples of dubious choices (as in typical undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with whatever heavy object is available rather than standing still like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict once individuals start turning to the undead, which was a pleasantly realistic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for everything! cliché frequently used in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they decide via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been building for years. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to push the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals express appreciation toward one another feel far more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep insight about family or community, as well. Instead, it's mostly serving up scares. Yet these are successful scares, and since the movie gives each character sufficient space to grow and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the result proves a captivating and enjoyable
