For the most part, I've had my fill of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre feels mostly exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. However, the platform's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated and proved quite enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Development
Among the film's strongest strengths lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off using a memorable opening sequence where a calm family gathering is violently interrupted by a vehicle crashes into the guest area. Out of the van, a very zombie-like stranger stumbles out proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic scene is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe the family prior to the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough time to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a former close friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has understandably caused a rift among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and he enjoys playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch is her dad, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he appears focused on only two things: his work and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is extremely strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so invested in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot this was a horror film—something that could sound like a negative, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of its runtime depicting viewers who each family member is, plus the ways they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities allowed me to relate to the personalities enough to care about their outcome—an uncommon feat in a genre which frequently introduces individuals just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to consume, thus it's a real surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and various family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to making an abrupt shift into "holy shit" territory. These early moments don't focus too heavily on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient time to settle into the setting before it gets upended.
Original Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the source for this infectious condition originates in a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. Although some background is provided something regarding how it started, I wish the movie devoted a little more time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to producing a deadly elixir that appears to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the lack of background, the impact this affliction has on people proves utterly disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a daring choice, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also very convincing, and they're almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see a few instances of questionable choices (as in typical undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives are inventive and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with whatever heavy object they find rather than standing still like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Realistic Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord once individuals start turning to the undead, this proved a pleasantly realistic deviation from the "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 end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby location. But when Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—feel authentic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to push the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This makes the moments when these characters do show appreciation for each other seem much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep message about family or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily delivering scares. But they're effective frights, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is an engaging and entertaining
