For the most part, I'm over undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre seems mostly exhausted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for months. However, the platform's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Pacing and Personal Development
Among the film's strongest assets lies in the excellent rhythm. It begins with a memorable opening sequence where a calm family gathering is violently interrupted when a van plows right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe this household before the disaster occurred.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly gives the audience enough opportunity to get to know its main characters prior to the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. This has predictably caused a rift between the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. The family head consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he appears to care about just two things: his work and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so invested with this household's issues and their personal conflicts to the point I nearly forgot this was a scary movie—something that could seem like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime depicting viewers who each relative represents, and how they add to the general turmoil. This focus on conflicting traits allowed the audience to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently introduces individuals just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to consume, so it's a real surprise once events finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and various household exchanges in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a K-Drama featuring slightly dark humor before making an abrupt turn into "holy shit" ground. These early moments aren't centered too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient time to immerse in the setting prior to it gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the spreading transformation. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the cause for this contagious disease originates in a recent sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. While we do learn something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted additional focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a lethal potion that appears to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the limited background, the effect this condition has on humans proves utterly repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and they're almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
More impressive compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some instances of dubious choices (like any any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her family are inventive and sharp. They also aren't afraid to strike an undead in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with whatever heavy object is available instead of freezing like prey caught in lights as death nears.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict when people begin transforming into zombies, this proved a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for everything! trope often seen in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes loves her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they decide via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—seem authentic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances when these characters express appreciation for each other seem far more sincere.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound insight regarding relatives or society, either. Instead, it's mostly serving up frights. Yet these are successful scares, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is an engaging and entertaining
