Netflix's Unexpected Latest Zombie Film Injects Fresh Air into a Stale Category

Typically, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, this category feels mostly depleted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for months. However, Netflix's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.

Impressive Pacing and Character Development

Among the film's strongest assets is its excellent rhythm. It kicks off using a striking initial scene in which a calm family party is violently interrupted when a vehicle crashes into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like stranger emerges and begins attacking the attendees. This intense moment is then succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to see the family prior to the disaster occurred.

Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir truly gives viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with its main characters before the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex best friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable situation. This has predictably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who loves playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household head consists of her dad, who runs a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and who seems to care about just two things: his work and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely tense.

Engaged in the Drama

I became so engrossed with this household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot this was a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they add to the general turmoil. This focus on clashing personalities enabled the audience to connect with the characters enough to care about their fate—an uncommon accomplishment for this style that often presents characters just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to consume, so it's a genuine surprise when things finally go wrong.

Evocative of Parasite

The opening sequences from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking an abrupt shift into "holy shit" ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient time to settle into the setting before everything gets turned upside down.

Original Zombification Origin

The film additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this infectious condition stems from a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent a little more time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to creating a lethal potion that appears to contain a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of background, the effect this condition produces on people proves utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a bold choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very realistic, and they're practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.

Capable Characters

More impressive than the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few examples of questionable decision-making (like any any good zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick an undead in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with whatever heavy object they find rather than standing still like a deer caught in lights as death approaches.

Realistic Family Strike

The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning to the undead, this proved a welcome authentic 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 often seen in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes loves her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they agree over the phone to meet up at a close spot. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—feel realistic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This causes the moments when these characters express gratitude toward one another seem much more sincere.

Predictable Ending

In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep insight regarding relatives or community, either. Instead, it's mostly serving up frights. But they're successful frights, and because the film allows every personality enough room to grow and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result proves a captivating and entertaining