Typically, I've had my fill of undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems largely depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for some time. But, the platform's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated turning out quite enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Character Growth
Among the film's greatest strengths is its superb pacing. It begins with a striking opening sequence in which a calm family party gets suddenly disrupted when a vehicle plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This intense moment is then succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to see the family prior to the disaster struck.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir truly gives the audience sufficient time to become acquainted with its main personalities before the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a ex best friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has understandably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and he enjoys playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on Nes. This household patriarch is her dad, the owner of a well-known natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and he seems to care about only two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so engrossed in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot this was a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, but in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime to showing viewers the identity of every family member represents, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This focus on clashing personalities enabled me to relate with the characters sufficiently to care about their fate—a rare feat for this style that often presents individuals only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a Korean drama with somewhat morbid humor before making a sudden shift toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives sufficient opportunity to immerse in its world prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting reason regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the cause of this contagious disease originates in a new sample of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. While we do learn something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film devoted additional focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to producing a deadly potion which seems to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of context, the impact this affliction produces on people proves utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are fast, 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 also appear quite realistic, and are practically certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
Even better than the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, we see some examples of dubious decision-making (like any any good undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available rather than standing still like a deer in headlights as death approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide via telephone to meet up at a close location. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances where these individuals do show gratitude toward one another feel much more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep message regarding relatives or community, as well. Instead, it's mostly serving up scares. But they're effective frights, and since the movie allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome is an engaging and entertaining
