Typically, I'm over apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre feels largely exhausted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, the platform's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out quite entertaining.
Excellent Pacing and Character Growth
One of the film's greatest assets lies in the excellent rhythm. It begins using a memorable opening sequence where a peaceful family party is violently interrupted by a vehicle crashes into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual emerges proceeding attacking the partygoers. This intense scene is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to see the family prior to the tragedy occurred.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly allows viewers sufficient opportunity to get to know its main personalities before the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. This has understandably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured but a bit inept socially, and who enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have recently been unfaithful to her. This household head consists of her dad, who runs a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two aspects: his work and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so invested in the family's dynamics and their personal conflicts that I nearly forgot I was watching a scary movie—something that could sound like a drawback, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film depicting viewers the identity of every relative represents, plus the ways they add to the general turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed the audience to connect with the characters sufficiently to care about their outcome—an uncommon feat in a genre which frequently introduces characters only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of zombies to consume, so it's a real surprise when things finally go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and various household exchanges actually evoke the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking a sudden turn toward "holy shit" territory. These introductory scenes don't focus too heavily on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides enough opportunity to settle into the setting prior to it gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Source
This movie also offers a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition originates in a new batch from Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. Although we do learn a bit about its origins, I wish the film devoted additional time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the limited context, the effect this affliction has on humans proves utterly repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring decision, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also quite convincing, and they're almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are a few examples of dubious decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and sharp. They also aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with whatever heavy object is available instead of standing still like prey caught in lights as death approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict once individuals start turning to the undead, 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 everything! trope frequently used in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still holding onto resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close location. However, once Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try to push the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals do show appreciation toward one another feel much more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound message regarding relatives or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily delivering scares. But they're effective frights, and because the movie allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result is an engaging and enjoyable
