Netflix's Startling New Zombie Film Injects New Life into a Tired Category

Generally speaking, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre seems mostly depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. But, the platform's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.

Excellent Pacing and Character Development

One of the film's greatest assets lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off with a memorable initial scene in which a calm family gathering is violently disrupted when a van plows right into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like individual emerges proceeding attacking the partygoers. This intense scene is then followed by a flashback, giving viewers to see this household prior to the disaster struck.

In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually allows the audience enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother with a former close friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a rift between the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and who enjoys gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on Nes. This household head is Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he seems to care about only two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves incredibly strained.

Invested in the Conflict

I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly overlooked this was a scary movie—which might seem like a drawback, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of the film depicting us the identity of every family member is, plus the ways they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled me to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat for this style which frequently introduces characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to consume, thus it's a real shock when things finally go wrong.

Reminiscent of Parasite

The opening scenes of the party and various family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy before taking a sudden shift into shocking territory. These early moments don't focus too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient time to immerse in the setting before it gets upended.

Original Infection Origin

This movie also offers a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While we do learn a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the movie had spent additional time on how Wani Waras went from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion that appears to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of context, the impact this condition produces on humans is utterly repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring decision, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also quite realistic, and are practically guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.

Resourceful Personalities

More impressive than the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see some examples of questionable decision-making (like any any good zombie movie), however 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, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.

Believable Family Discord

The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes loves her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide over the phone to meet up at a close location. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try to push the notion that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals express gratitude for each other feel much more genuine.

Predictable Conclusion

Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up frights. But they're effective scares, and since the film gives each character sufficient space to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the outcome is a captivating and entertaining