For the most part, I've had my fill of zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category feels mostly depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for months. However, the platform's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations turning out remarkably entertaining.
Excellent Rhythm and Personal Development
One of the film's strongest assets is its excellent rhythm. It begins with a striking opening sequence in which a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted by a van crashes into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking individual stumbles out and begins assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe this household prior to the disaster occurred.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir truly allows viewers enough time to become acquainted with its main characters prior to the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother with a ex best friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. This has predictably led to a falling out between the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and who enjoys playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. The family patriarch consists of Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on just two things: his work and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so engrossed in the household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot this was a horror film—which might seem like a negative, but in the end worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of the film to showing viewers who each family member is, plus the ways they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed me to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment in a genre which frequently introduces characters only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to devour, thus it's a real surprise once events finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and the multiple family interactions in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a Korean drama featuring slightly dark humor before making an abrupt shift toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory scenes don't focus too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides sufficient opportunity to immerse in its world before it gets upended.
Unique Zombification Origin
The film also offers a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film devoted additional time on how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the limited context, the effect this condition has on humans is absolutely disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's undead prove fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also very convincing, and they're practically certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of questionable choices (like any typical undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike an undead in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument is available rather than standing still like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord once individuals begin transforming into zombies, which was a welcome realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for everything! cliché often seen in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes loves her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they decide over the phone to regroup at a close location. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to push the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters do show gratitude toward one another feel much more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight about family or society, either. Rather, it's mostly delivering frights. But they're successful scares, and since the film allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome is an engaging and entertaining
