Typically, I'm over undead films. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems largely depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. However, Netflix's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Personal Development
Among this movie's strongest strengths is its superb rhythm. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence in which a peaceful family party gets suddenly interrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking individual emerges proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately followed by a look back, allowing us to see this household prior to the disaster struck.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir truly gives viewers enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary personalities prior to the chaos begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable situation. This has predictably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and he enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household head consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and who appears focused on just two things: his work and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so invested in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked this was a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a significant amount of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every relative represents, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled me to connect to the personalities enough to care about their fate—a rare feat in a genre which frequently introduces characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to consume, thus it's a genuine shock when things eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and the multiple family interactions in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a Korean drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking an abrupt turn into shocking territory. These early moments don't focus as much on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient opportunity to immerse in the setting before everything gets upended.
Unique Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source for this contagious disease stems from a new batch from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. While we do learn a bit about how it started, I wish the film had spent a little more focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion that appears to contain an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this affliction produces on people is utterly repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's undead are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring decision, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also quite convincing, and are practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few examples of questionable choices (as in any good undead film), but generally, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument they find rather than freezing like prey caught in lights as death nears.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a pleasantly realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains clinging to resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they agree over the phone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem authentic and understandable because the film doesn't try to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This causes the moments when these characters express appreciation for each other feel much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound message regarding relatives or society, as well. Instead, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're successful scares, and since the film gives each character sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and entertaining
