Generally speaking, I've had my fill of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre feels largely depleted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for months. However, the platform's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out quite enjoyable.
Impressive Pacing and Personal Development
One of the film's strongest strengths lies in the superb rhythm. It kicks off with a striking initial scene where a calm family party gets suddenly interrupted when a van crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like stranger emerges proceeding attacking the partygoers. This dramatic moment is then succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to observe this household prior to the tragedy occurred.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough time to get to know its main characters prior to the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a married mother whose ex close friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable situation. This has understandably led to a rift between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured but socially awkward, and he loves gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on Nes. The family patriarch is Nes' father, the owner of a popular natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on only two aspects: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is incredibly strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed with this household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot I was watching a scary movie—something that could seem like a drawback, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of the film depicting us the identity of every family member represents, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This focus on clashing traits allowed me to connect to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat for this style that often presents characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to devour, so it's a genuine shock when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor prior to making a sudden turn into shocking ground. These introductory scenes don't focus too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient time to settle into its world prior to it gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Origin
The film additionally presents a quite interesting reason regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Instead of a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a new sample from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While some background is provided a bit about how it started, I wish the film had spent a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the lack of context, the effect this affliction has on people proves utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's undead prove fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see a few examples of questionable decision-making (like any any good zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument is available rather than freezing like a deer in headlights as death nears.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord when people begin transforming to the undead, this proved a welcome authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they decide via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. But when Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to promote the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This makes the moments where these individuals express gratitude toward one another seem much more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound insight about family or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're effective frights, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and entertaining
