Typically, I've grown tired of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category seems largely exhausted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for months. However, the platform's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Development
Among the film's strongest strengths lies in the excellent rhythm. It kicks off with a memorable opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly disrupted when a van plows right into the guest area. Out of the van, a very zombie-like stranger stumbles out and begins assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe the family prior to the tragedy struck.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir truly allows viewers enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother whose ex close friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured but socially awkward, and who loves playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household head consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on just two aspects: his business and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed in the household's issues and their interpersonal drama that I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of the film depicting us who each relative is, plus the ways they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This focus on conflicting traits enabled the audience to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—a rare feat for this style that often presents characters only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to devour, thus it's a real shock when things eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and various household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid humor prior to making an abrupt shift into "holy shit" ground. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough opportunity to settle into the setting before everything gets upended.
Original Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the cause for this infectious condition originates in a new batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. While some background is provided a bit about its origins, I wish the movie had spent additional focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to producing a lethal potion that appears to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the limited background, the impact this condition has on people is utterly repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear very realistic, and they're practically certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better than the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few examples of dubious choices (as in typical zombie movie), but 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 hit it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord when people start turning into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for everything! trope frequently used in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they agree over the phone to meet up at a close location. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try to push the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes those instances when these characters express gratitude toward one another seem much more sincere.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound message regarding relatives or society, either. Instead, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're successful scares, and since the film gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves a captivating and entertaining
