For the most part, I'm over zombie movies. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category seems largely depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. But, the platform's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.
Impressive Rhythm and Personal Development
Among the film's greatest strengths is its superb pacing. It begins using a memorable opening sequence in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly interrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking individual emerges and begins attacking the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately followed by a flashback, allowing us to see this household prior to the disaster struck.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with its main characters prior to the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a ex close friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has predictably led to a falling out among Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and who enjoys gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on Nes. The family head is Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he appears focused on only two aspects: his business and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves incredibly strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so engrossed with this family's dynamics and their personal conflicts to the point I almost forgot this was a horror film—something that could sound like a drawback, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime depicting viewers who each family member represents, plus the ways they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting traits enabled me to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre that often introduces characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to devour, thus it's a real surprise when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and the multiple family interactions in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a K-Drama with slightly dark humor prior to taking a sudden shift into shocking territory. These early moments don't focus too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides enough time to settle into the setting before everything gets upended.
Original Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting reason for the source of the spreading transformation. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the cause 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 its origins, I wish the film devoted a little more time on how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the impact this affliction has on people proves absolutely disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and are practically certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see a few examples of dubious choices (like any any good zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives are inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick an undead in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available instead of freezing like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close location. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This causes the moments where these individuals express gratitude for each other feel much more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep insight regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're effective frights, and since the movie gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is a captivating and enjoyable
