Generally speaking, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre feels largely depleted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. But, the platform's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated and proved remarkably entertaining.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Development
Among the film's greatest strengths is its superb rhythm. It kicks off with a striking opening sequence in which a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly interrupted by a van crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking stranger emerges and begins attacking the partygoers. This dramatic moment is then succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe this household prior to the tragedy struck.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows the audience enough time to get to know its main characters before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex best friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—a clearly awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and who enjoys gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household patriarch consists of Nes' father, the owner of a well-known natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on just two aspects: his work and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is extremely strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed with this family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could sound like a drawback, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of its runtime to showing us the identity of every family member is, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled the audience to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare feat in a genre that often introduces individuals just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to consume, so it's a real surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and various household exchanges in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama featuring slightly dark comedy prior to taking a sudden shift into "holy shit" territory. These early scenes don't focus too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to immerse in its world before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
This movie also offers a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading transformation. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the cause for this contagious disease originates in a new batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. While we do learn something regarding its origins, I wish the movie had spent additional time explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this condition produces on people is utterly repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's undead are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a daring choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite convincing, and are practically certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive compared to the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of questionable choices (as in any good undead film), but generally, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available rather than standing still like prey in headlights as death nears.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, which was a welcome realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they agree via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel authentic and understandable because the film doesn't try to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This causes the moments when these characters do show appreciation for each other seem far more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound message regarding relatives or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're effective frights, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and entertaining
