For the most part, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre seems largely depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. However, the platform's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Development
One of this movie's strongest assets lies in the excellent rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable opening sequence in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly disrupted by a vehicle plows right into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is then followed by a look back, allowing us to see this household before the tragedy struck.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly gives the audience sufficient opportunity to get to know the primary personalities before the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother whose ex close friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. Naturally, this has predictably caused a rift among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured yet socially awkward, and he loves gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on Nes. The family head is her dad, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he appears to care about just two things: his business and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so invested in the household's issues and their personal conflicts that I almost forgot this was a horror film—something that could seem like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime to showing viewers the identity of every relative represents, and how they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This focus on clashing traits enabled the audience to connect to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre that often introduces individuals just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of the undead to devour, so it's a genuine shock when things finally go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and the multiple family interactions actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to making an abrupt turn toward shocking territory. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to immerse in the setting before everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a new batch from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While some background is provided a bit about its origins, I wish the movie devoted a little more time on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to creating a lethal potion that appears to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the limited context, the impact this condition produces on people proves absolutely repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a bold choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also very convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive compared to the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see some examples of dubious choices (like any typical zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and sharp. They also don't hesitate to kick an undead in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with whatever heavy object they find rather than freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a welcome realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains holding onto resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they decide over the phone to meet up at a nearby location. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to promote the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters express appreciation for each other seem far 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 message regarding relatives or society, as well. Instead, it's primarily delivering frights. Yet these are successful frights, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
