For the most part, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. While favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre feels mostly depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. But, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Development
Among the film's greatest assets is its superb rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene in which a calm family gathering is violently interrupted when a van plows right into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual stumbles out and begins attacking the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to see this household prior to the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually allows the audience enough time to get to know its main personalities prior to the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably led to a falling out between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household head is her dad, the owner of a well-known natural medicine company named Wani Waras, and he seems to care about only two things: his work and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so invested with this household's issues along with their personal conflicts that I almost overlooked this was a horror film—something that could sound like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime to showing viewers the identity of every relative represents, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This focus on clashing personalities allowed me to relate with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—a rare feat for this style which frequently presents characters just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to devour, so it's a real surprise once events eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and various family interactions actually evoke the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy before taking an abrupt shift into "holy shit" territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient opportunity to immerse in the setting before everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a quite interesting explanation for the source of the contagious transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition originates in a recent sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film devoted a little more time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to producing a deadly potion which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the limited context, the impact this affliction produces on people is absolutely disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's undead prove fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a bold choice, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and are almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see some examples of dubious decision-making (like any any good undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives are inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike an undead in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available rather than freezing like a deer in headlights as death nears.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people start turning to the undead, this proved a welcome authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they decide via telephone to regroup at a close location. But when Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try to promote the notion that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters do show gratitude toward one another seem much more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound message regarding relatives or community, either. Instead, it's primarily serving up scares. But they're effective scares, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and entertaining
