For the most part, I've had my fill of zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems largely exhausted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. But, the platform's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Development
Among the film's strongest assets lies in the excellent pacing. It kicks off with a memorable opening sequence in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly interrupted when a van plows right into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This dramatic moment is then followed by a flashback, allowing us to see the family prior to the disaster struck.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough time to become acquainted with the primary personalities prior to the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a former best friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. This has predictably caused a rift among Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and who loves playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. The family patriarch consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two things: his business and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is extremely tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so invested with this family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot this was a horror film—which might sound like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film depicting us who each relative is, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled the audience to connect to the personalities enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat in a genre which frequently presents individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine shock once events eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and the multiple family interactions in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a K-Drama with slightly dark humor prior to taking a sudden shift toward shocking territory. These early scenes aren't centered too heavily on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still provides sufficient time to immerse in the setting prior to it gets upended.
Unique Infection Source
The film also offers a fairly interesting reason for the source of the contagious zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source for this contagious disease originates in a recent sample from Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. While we do learn a bit about how it started, I wish the film had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal elixir that appears to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the limited background, the impact this condition produces on people is absolutely repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
Even better compared to the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see some examples of questionable choices (like any any good zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with the nearest heavy object they find instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights as death approaches.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes loves her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains clinging to bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they decide over the phone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been building for years. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try to push the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals do show gratitude for each other feel much more sincere.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound insight regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're successful frights, and since the movie allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is an engaging and enjoyable
