For the most part, I'm over undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre seems largely depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust 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.
Impressive Rhythm and Personal Development
Among the film's greatest strengths lies in the excellent rhythm. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence in which a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly interrupted by a vehicle plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like individual emerges and begins attacking the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, allowing us to observe this household prior to the disaster struck.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows the audience enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters before the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a former best friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. Naturally, this has understandably caused a falling out between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured yet socially awkward, and who loves gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household head is her dad, who runs a well-known natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on only two aspects: his work and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so invested in the household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly overlooked this was a scary movie—which might sound like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of its runtime to showing viewers the identity of every family member represents, and how they add to the general turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits allowed the audience to relate to the personalities enough to care about their fate—an uncommon feat for this style that often presents characters only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and the multiple family interactions in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a Korean drama featuring slightly dark humor prior to making an abrupt shift toward shocking ground. These early scenes aren't centered too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still provides sufficient time to immerse in the setting prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a fairly interesting reason for the source of the spreading transformation. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition originates in a new sample from Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. Although some background is provided a bit about its origins, I wish the film had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to creating a lethal potion which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the lack of context, the effect this affliction has on people proves absolutely repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very realistic, and they're almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
Even better compared to the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see a few examples of dubious decision-making (as in any good undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and sharp. They also don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with whatever heavy object they find rather than standing still like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning to the undead, 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 everything! trope frequently used in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes loves her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they agree over the phone to regroup at a nearby location. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—seem authentic and relatable because the film doesn't try to promote the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This causes the moments where these individuals do show gratitude toward one another feel much more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound insight about family or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up scares. But they're successful frights, and because the film gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable
