Generally speaking, I've had my fill of zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category feels mostly depleted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. But, the platform's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Character Growth
Among this movie's greatest assets is its excellent pacing. It kicks off using a striking initial scene where a peaceful family party is violently disrupted when a van crashes into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual emerges and begins assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to observe this household before the tragedy struck.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives the audience sufficient time to get to know its main personalities prior to the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—a clearly awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably led to a rift among Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured but socially awkward, and he loves gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. This household head consists of her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on just two things: his business and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so invested with this household's issues along with their personal conflicts to the point I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of the film depicting viewers the identity of every family member is, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting traits allowed me to connect to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre that often introduces individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of the undead to devour, so it's a real surprise when things finally go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and various family interactions in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a Korean drama with slightly dark comedy prior to taking a sudden turn toward "holy shit" ground. These early moments don't focus as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives enough time to settle into its world before everything gets upended.
Unique Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting reason regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the cause of this infectious condition originates in a new batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. Although some background is provided a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the lack of background, the effect this condition has on humans proves absolutely repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a daring decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also very realistic, and are practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better than the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see some examples of dubious choices (like any any good zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument they find rather than standing still like a deer caught in lights as death approaches.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a welcome authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still clinging to bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been building over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—seem authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to promote the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This makes the moments when these characters express appreciation toward one another feel much more sincere.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight about family or community, either. Instead, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're effective scares, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves a captivating and enjoyable
