For the most part, I'm over zombie movies. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre seems mostly exhausted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. However, the platform's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated and proved quite enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Personal Development
Among the film's greatest strengths is its excellent rhythm. It begins using a striking initial scene in which a peaceful family party gets suddenly interrupted by a van plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like stranger stumbles out proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This intense scene is immediately succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to observe the family before the disaster struck.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough time to get to know 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—a clearly uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has understandably led to a rift between the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and he enjoys gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. This household patriarch consists of her dad, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he appears to care about just two aspects: his work and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly strained.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so invested in the family's dynamics and their personal conflicts to the point I almost overlooked I was watching a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, but in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film depicting us who each relative is, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting personalities enabled me to relate with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon accomplishment for this style which frequently introduces characters just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to devour, so it's a genuine surprise when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and the multiple family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor prior to making an abrupt shift into shocking territory. These introductory scenes aren't centered too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to settle into the setting before it gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Origin
The film additionally presents a quite intriguing reason regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Instead of an accidental lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this contagious disease originates in a recent batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. While we do learn something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the limited context, the impact this affliction produces on people is utterly repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's undead are quick, freaky-looking, 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 convincing, and they're almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
Even better than the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some examples of dubious decision-making (like any typical undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike an undead in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with whatever blunt instrument they find instead of freezing like prey in headlights as death approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord when people start turning into zombies, which was a welcome realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes loves her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to meet up at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been building over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This makes the moments when these characters do show appreciation for each other seem much more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight regarding relatives or society, as well. Instead, it's mostly delivering frights. But they're successful frights, and since the movie gives each character sufficient space to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
