Typically, I'm over undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre feels largely depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for months. However, the platform's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated and proved remarkably entertaining.
Superb Pacing and Character Development
One of this movie's greatest strengths is its excellent rhythm. It kicks off with a striking initial scene where a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly interrupted by a vehicle plows right into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual stumbles out and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense scene is immediately succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to observe the family prior to the tragedy occurred.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly allows the audience enough time to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a former close friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable situation. This has understandably caused a falling out among the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who loves gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. The family patriarch consists of her dad, who runs a well-known natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and who appears to care about only two aspects: his work and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves incredibly tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so invested with this household's issues and their interpersonal drama that I almost overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could sound like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of the film to showing viewers the identity of every relative is, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This focus on clashing traits enabled me to relate to the personalities sufficiently to care about their fate—a rare feat in a genre that often introduces characters only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor prior to making a sudden turn into shocking territory. These introductory moments aren't centered too heavily on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient time to settle into the setting prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a quite interesting explanation for the source of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition stems from a new batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. While some background is provided a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the movie had spent a little more time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a lethal elixir which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the limited background, the effect this affliction produces on humans is utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a bold choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear quite realistic, and they're almost guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of dubious decision-making (like any any good undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her family are inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, which was a welcome authentic subversion from that "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 movies. Obviously, Nes loves her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide over the phone to regroup at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to push the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments where these individuals express appreciation toward one another seem much more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound insight regarding relatives or society, as well. Instead, it's mostly serving up frights. Yet these are effective frights, and since the movie gives each character sufficient space to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the outcome is an engaging and entertaining
