Generally speaking, I've had my fill of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre feels largely exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, the platform's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated and proved quite enjoyable.
Impressive Pacing and Personal Growth
One of the film's greatest strengths is its superb pacing. It kicks off with a striking initial scene in which a calm family gathering is violently disrupted by a vehicle crashes into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like stranger stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense moment is immediately followed by a look back, allowing us to see this household prior to the tragedy occurred.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir truly gives the audience enough time to become acquainted with its main characters before the chaos begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has understandably caused a rift among Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who enjoys playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on Nes. The family head consists of Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he appears focused on only two things: his business and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is incredibly strained.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so invested in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a negative, but in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of its runtime depicting viewers who each relative is, and how they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting traits enabled me to connect to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment for this style which frequently introduces characters only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to consume, thus it's a real surprise once events finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and various family interactions actually evoke the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy before making an abrupt turn toward shocking ground. These introductory moments don't focus as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides sufficient time to settle into its world prior to everything gets upended.
Unique Zombification Origin
The film additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a recent sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. Although some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the film devoted additional focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this affliction produces on humans is absolutely repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and they're practically certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
Even better compared to the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some examples of questionable decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with the nearest heavy object they find instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights as death approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord once individuals begin transforming into zombies, which was a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for everything! trope frequently used in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they decide over the phone to regroup at a nearby location. But when Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals do show appreciation for each other feel far more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep message about family or community, either. Rather, it's primarily delivering scares. Yet these are effective frights, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result is an engaging and entertaining
