Generally speaking, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category seems mostly exhausted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. But, the platform's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Character Growth
One of the film's strongest assets lies in the superb rhythm. It kicks off with a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family party gets suddenly disrupted when a van crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like stranger emerges proceeding attacking the attendees. This intense moment is then succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe the family prior to the tragedy struck.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly gives viewers sufficient time to get to know its main characters before the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a former best friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. This has understandably led to a rift between the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and he enjoys gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on her. This household head consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and he seems to care about just two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so invested in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost overlooked this was a horror film—which might sound like a negative, but in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of its runtime depicting viewers who each relative is, plus the ways they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities allowed the audience to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style which frequently presents characters just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to consume, thus it's a real surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and the multiple family interactions in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a K-Drama with slightly dark humor prior to taking a sudden turn into "holy shit" territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to immerse in the setting prior to it gets upended.
Original Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a new batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding how it started, I wish the film had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a lethal potion which seems to include an extremely infectious virus. Despite the lack of background, the impact this condition produces on people is utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's undead are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also very convincing, and are practically guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some examples of dubious choices (like any any good zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict when people start turning to the undead, this proved a welcome authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for everything! cliché often seen in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been building for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel authentic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters express gratitude toward one another feel much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight about family or society, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up frights. But they're effective scares, and since the movie gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
