Typically, I'm over apocalyptic horror. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre feels largely depleted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for some time. However, the platform's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Personal Development
One of this movie's greatest assets lies in the excellent pacing. It kicks off with a memorable opening sequence where a calm family party gets suddenly interrupted by a vehicle plows right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This intense moment is then followed by a flashback, allowing us to see this household prior to the tragedy occurred.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir truly gives viewers enough opportunity to get to know the primary personalities prior to the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a married mother with a ex best friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—a clearly awkward situation. Naturally, this has understandably caused a rift between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch consists of her dad, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and who seems to care about just two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves incredibly tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed with this household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost overlooked I was watching a scary movie—something that could sound like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of the film to showing viewers the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting traits enabled the audience to connect with the characters enough to care about their outcome—a rare accomplishment in a genre which frequently introduces characters only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a genuine surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama with somewhat morbid humor before taking an abrupt shift toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory moments don't focus as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough time to immerse in its world before everything gets upended.
Unique Zombification Source
The film additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. Although we do learn something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the movie had spent a little more time explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion which seems to contain a highly contagious virus. Despite the limited context, the effect this condition has on people is utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a bold decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also quite realistic, and they're practically certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive than the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some examples of questionable choices (like any any good undead film), however generally, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and sharp. They also don't hesitate to kick an undead in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with whatever heavy object they find rather than standing still like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Realistic Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict when people begin transforming into zombies, which was a welcome realistic deviation 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 cares for her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still clinging to bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they agree via telephone to meet up at a close location. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes is not flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—feel realistic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This causes those instances where these individuals express appreciation toward one another feel far more sincere.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep insight regarding relatives or community, either. Rather, it's mostly delivering frights. Yet these are successful frights, and since the movie gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable
