Typically, I'm over zombie movies. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category feels mostly depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for some time. But, the platform's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations and proved remarkably entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Growth
One of the film's greatest strengths lies in the excellent pacing. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family party gets suddenly disrupted when a vehicle plows right into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like individual stumbles out and begins assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic scene is immediately succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to see this household before the tragedy struck.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough opportunity to become acquainted with its main characters before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—a clearly awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out between the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured but a bit inept socially, and he enjoys gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on her. This household patriarch consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and who appears to care about just two things: his work and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is incredibly strained.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed in the household's issues and their interpersonal drama that I almost overlooked this was a horror film—which might seem like a drawback, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of the film to showing viewers the identity of every relative represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This focus on clashing traits enabled the audience to relate to the personalities enough to care about their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre that often introduces individuals just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to devour, so it's a genuine surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various household exchanges in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid humor before making an abrupt shift into shocking ground. These early scenes aren't centered too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient opportunity to immerse in the setting prior to it gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Source
The film also offers a quite intriguing reason regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the source for this contagious disease originates in a recent batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, I wish the movie devoted a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the lack of background, the effect this affliction has on humans is utterly repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's undead prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a bold choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also very realistic, and are almost guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are some instances of dubious choices (as in any good zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with the nearest heavy object is available rather than freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger nears.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord once individuals begin transforming into zombies, which was a welcome authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide over the phone to meet up at a close spot. However, once Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been building over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—seem realistic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals express gratitude toward one another feel much more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound insight about family or community, either. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are effective scares, and because the film allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result is an engaging and enjoyable
