Typically, I've grown tired of undead films. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre seems largely depleted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for months. However, the platform's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Pacing and Character Development
Among the film's greatest assets is its excellent pacing. It begins with a striking opening sequence in which a peaceful family party is violently interrupted by a van crashes into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual emerges and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense moment is then followed by a flashback, allowing us to see this household before the disaster struck.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose former best friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably caused a rift among the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who enjoys gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. The family patriarch consists of Nes' father, who runs a popular natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two aspects: his business and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is extremely strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so invested with this household's issues and their interpersonal drama that I almost forgot I was watching a scary movie—which might seem like a drawback, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of the film depicting us who each relative is, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits enabled me to connect to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment in a genre that often presents individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, thus it's a real surprise when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring slightly dark humor before taking a sudden shift into shocking ground. These introductory scenes don't focus as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to immerse in its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Source
This movie also offers a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease originates in a recent batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. Although some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent a little more focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a lethal potion which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the lack of background, the effect this affliction produces on humans proves utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a bold decision, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very realistic, and are almost guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive than the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of dubious choices (as in any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available rather than freezing like a deer in headlights while danger nears.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes loves her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to meet up at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes those instances when these characters express appreciation toward one another feel much more genuine.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight regarding relatives or society, either. Instead, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're effective scares, and since the film allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves a captivating and entertaining
