Typically, I've had my fill of zombie movies. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre feels largely exhausted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for months. But, the platform's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.
Superb Pacing and Character Development
One of the film's greatest assets is its superb rhythm. It begins using a striking opening sequence in which a peaceful family party is violently interrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very zombie-like individual emerges proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to see the family prior to the tragedy occurred.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir actually allows the audience sufficient time to become acquainted with its main characters prior to the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably led to a rift among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who enjoys gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. The family head is her dad, the owner of a popular natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and he seems to care about just two things: his work and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts to the point I nearly overlooked this was a scary movie—something that could seem like a drawback, but in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film depicting viewers the identity of every family member is, and how they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits allowed the audience to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare feat for this style that often introduces characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to consume, thus it's a genuine shock when things finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a K-Drama with slightly dark humor before making an abrupt shift into "holy shit" ground. These early moments aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to immerse in the setting before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
The film also offers a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this infectious condition originates in a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. While some background is provided a bit about how it started, I wish the movie had spent a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal elixir that appears to contain an extremely infectious virus. Despite the limited context, the effect this affliction produces on humans is utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also quite convincing, and are almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
More impressive compared to the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see some instances of dubious choices (as in typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object they find rather than standing still like prey in headlights while danger nears.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for everything! trope often seen in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes loves her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide via telephone to regroup at a close location. But when Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals express gratitude toward one another feel much more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound message about family or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up scares. Yet these are effective frights, and because the film gives each character sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome is a captivating and entertaining
