For the most part, I've grown tired of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre feels mostly depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for months. However, the platform's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated and proved remarkably entertaining.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Growth
One of the film's strongest strengths is its superb rhythm. It begins with a memorable initial scene where a peaceful family party is violently interrupted by a van plows right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking individual emerges proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This intense scene is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe this household before the disaster struck.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually allows the audience enough time to become acquainted with its main characters before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a ex close friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. Naturally, this has understandably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured but a bit inept socially, and he loves gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. The family patriarch is her dad, who runs a popular natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and he seems to care about just two things: his business and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is extremely strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so engrossed in the household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of its runtime depicting viewers who each family member represents, plus the ways they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on clashing personalities allowed the audience to relate with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment in a genre that often presents individuals only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to consume, so it's a real surprise when things finally go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor before taking an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" territory. These introductory scenes don't focus as much on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides enough time to settle into its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
This movie also offers a quite interesting explanation for the source of the spreading transformation. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition stems from a new batch from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although we do learn a bit about its origins, I wish the film devoted a little more time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a deadly potion that appears to include an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the impact this affliction has on humans is absolutely repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and are almost guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see some instances of questionable decision-making (like any typical zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and sharp. They also don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with whatever heavy object they find instead of standing still like a deer caught in lights while danger nears.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a welcome authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes loves her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a close spot. However, once Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been building for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem realistic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters express appreciation toward one another seem far more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep message regarding relatives or society, either. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're successful frights, and since the film allows every personality enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the outcome is a captivating and entertaining
