For the most part, I'm over zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre feels mostly depleted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. But, the platform's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Development
Among the film's strongest strengths lies in the superb rhythm. It kicks off using a striking initial scene where a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted by a vehicle plows right into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like stranger stumbles out and begins attacking the partygoers. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe this household prior to the disaster struck.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir actually allows the audience enough time to become acquainted with its main characters before the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a married mother whose former close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—a clearly awkward situation. Naturally, this has understandably caused a rift among the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who loves playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. The family head is her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and he seems to care about only two aspects: his work and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves extremely strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so invested in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama that I almost forgot I was watching a scary movie—something that could seem like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of the film to showing viewers who each family member is, plus the ways they contribute to the general turmoil. This focus on clashing personalities allowed me to connect to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre that often presents characters just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to consume, so it's a genuine surprise when things finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a K-Drama with somewhat morbid humor before making a sudden turn into shocking ground. These introductory scenes don't focus too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient time to settle into the setting before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Instead of a unintended lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source of this contagious disease originates in a recent batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. While we do learn something regarding how it started, I wish the movie had spent additional time on how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a deadly potion that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the impact this affliction produces on humans is absolutely repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a bold decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and are practically certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are some instances of questionable decision-making (as in typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her family are inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick an undead in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with the nearest heavy object is available instead of standing still like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, which was a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains clinging to resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they decide over the phone to regroup at a close location. However, once Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and understandable because the film doesn't try to promote the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters express gratitude for each other seem far more sincere.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound insight regarding relatives or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily delivering scares. But they're effective frights, and because the movie gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves a captivating and entertaining
