Typically, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category feels largely depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, the platform's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated and proved remarkably entertaining.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Development
One of the film's greatest assets lies in the excellent pacing. It begins with a memorable initial scene in which a calm family gathering is violently interrupted by a van plows right into the guest area. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger emerges proceeding attacking the attendees. This dramatic moment is then followed by a flashback, allowing us to see this household before the tragedy struck.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough time to get to know the primary characters before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—a clearly awkward situation. Naturally, this has understandably caused a rift among the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and who loves gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on Nes. The family patriarch consists of Nes' father, who runs a popular natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed with this family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts that I nearly overlooked this was a scary movie—something that could seem like a negative, but in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a significant amount of the film depicting us who each family member represents, plus the ways they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled me to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style which frequently presents individuals only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a real surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and the multiple family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid humor prior to taking an abrupt shift toward "holy shit" ground. These early scenes don't focus as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough time to settle into the setting before it gets upended.
Original Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a recent batch from Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. Although some background is provided something regarding how it started, I wish the film had spent a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited background, the impact this affliction produces on people proves utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also quite realistic, and they're practically guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of dubious choices (like any any good undead film), but generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like prey caught in lights as death approaches.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people begin transforming into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still holding onto resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they decide via telephone to regroup at a nearby location. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the idea that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals express gratitude for each other seem far more sincere.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound insight regarding relatives or society, as well. Instead, it's primarily delivering scares. Yet these are successful scares, and because the film gives each character enough room to grow and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable
