Typically, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category seems mostly depleted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. But, the platform's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Character Growth
One of this movie's greatest assets lies in the excellent pacing. It begins using a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the guest area. Out of the van, a very zombie-like stranger stumbles out and begins assaulting the attendees. This intense moment is then succeeded by a look back, allowing us to observe the family before the tragedy occurred.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough time to become acquainted with the primary characters before the chaos begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a former best friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—an obviously awkward situation. This has understandably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and who enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. The family head is her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who appears to care about only two things: his work and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves extremely tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost overlooked this was a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film to showing us the identity of every family member represents, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on conflicting personalities allowed me to connect with the characters sufficiently to care about their outcome—a rare feat for this style that often presents individuals only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring slightly dark comedy prior to making a sudden turn toward shocking territory. These early scenes aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides sufficient opportunity to settle into the setting prior to everything gets upended.
Original Zombification Origin
The film also offers a fairly interesting reason regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition stems from a new sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, I wish the movie devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras went from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to producing a lethal potion that appears to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this condition has on humans is absolutely repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a daring decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also very realistic, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of dubious choices (as in typical undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with whatever heavy object is available instead of standing still like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict when people start turning to the undead, which was a welcome realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close location. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try to push the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This causes the moments where these individuals express appreciation toward one another feel far more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message about family or community, as well. Instead, it's mostly serving up scares. But they're effective frights, and because the film allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
