For the most part, I'm over apocalyptic horror. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, this category feels mostly exhausted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. But, the platform's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out quite enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Development
Among the film's strongest strengths is its superb pacing. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence where a calm family party gets suddenly interrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like stranger stumbles out and begins assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to see the family before the tragedy occurred.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir truly allows the audience enough time to get to know the primary personalities prior to the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably led to a falling out between the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured but socially awkward, and who enjoys playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. The family patriarch is Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on just two things: his work and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is extremely tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so engrossed with this family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot I was watching a scary movie—something that could seem like a drawback, but in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime depicting us the identity of every family member represents, plus the ways they add to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting personalities enabled me to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat for this style that often introduces individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to consume, so it's a real surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring slightly dark comedy before making an abrupt shift into shocking territory. These early scenes don't focus as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to immerse in the setting prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
The film also offers a fairly interesting reason regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although some background is provided a bit about how it started, I wish the film had spent 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. Regardless of the limited context, the impact this affliction has on people proves absolutely repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's undead are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear quite realistic, and they're almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
More impressive compared to the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of questionable choices (as in typical zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and sharp. They also don't hesitate to kick an undead in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like prey caught in lights while danger nears.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, this proved a pleasantly realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for everything! trope frequently used in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains holding onto resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they decide over the phone to regroup at a close location. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters express gratitude toward one another feel far more genuine.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message about family or society, as well. Instead, it's mostly serving up frights. But they're effective scares, and because the movie allows every personality sufficient space to develop and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the outcome is a captivating and entertaining
