Generally speaking, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category seems mostly depleted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Pacing and Character Development
One of this movie's greatest assets is its excellent rhythm. It begins using a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly disrupted by a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out and begins assaulting the attendees. This intense moment is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe this household prior to the disaster struck.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has understandably led to a rift between Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and he enjoys gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. The family head consists of her dad, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two things: his work and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves extremely tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts that I almost forgot this was a horror film—something that could seem like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every relative is, and how they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled me to relate with the characters sufficiently to care about their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style that often presents individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a real surprise when things eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges in fact evoke the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a Korean drama featuring slightly dark humor prior to taking an abrupt shift into "holy shit" territory. These early scenes aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still provides sufficient opportunity to immerse in the setting before everything gets upended.
Unique Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a quite interesting reason regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition originates in a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While we do learn something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted additional time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to creating a deadly potion that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this condition has on humans is utterly repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's undead are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and are practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
Even better than the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are some examples of dubious decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike an undead in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger nears.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict when people start turning to the undead, this proved a pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for everything! cliché often seen in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains holding onto resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they agree over the phone to regroup at a nearby location. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been building for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to push the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This makes the moments where these individuals express appreciation for each other seem far more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep message about family or society, as well. Instead, it's mostly delivering frights. Yet these are effective scares, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable
