Typically, I've had my fill of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre seems largely exhausted at this point. Yet 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 subvert what I anticipated turning out quite enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Character Development
One of the film's greatest strengths lies in the excellent rhythm. It begins with a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted when a vehicle plows into the guest area. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This intense moment is then succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to observe this household before the tragedy struck.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with its main personalities before the chaos begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable situation. This has predictably caused a rift between Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and he loves gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. The family head is her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he appears to care about just two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so engrossed in the household's issues along with their personal conflicts that I nearly forgot I was watching a scary movie—something that could sound like a drawback, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of its runtime depicting viewers who each family member is, plus the ways they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This focus on clashing personalities allowed the audience to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat for this style which frequently introduces individuals only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to devour, so it's a genuine surprise when things eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama with somewhat morbid humor prior to making an abrupt turn into shocking territory. These early moments don't focus too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient time to settle into the setting before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing reason for the source of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a recent sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed 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 went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this condition produces on humans is absolutely repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's undead are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and they're almost certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive compared to the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see a few examples of dubious decision-making (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 strike an undead in the head, stab 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 nears.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a welcome authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they decide over the phone to meet up at a close spot. However, once Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation toward Bang 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 avoids attempting to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments when these characters express appreciation for each other feel much more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, 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. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're effective frights, and since the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
