For the most part, I'm over undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre feels mostly exhausted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. But, the platform's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Personal Development
Among this movie's strongest assets is its superb rhythm. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence in which a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted by a vehicle plows into the seating section. Out of the van, a very zombie-like individual emerges proceeding attacking the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to see this household before the disaster struck.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually allows the audience enough opportunity to get to know its main characters prior to the chaos begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—a clearly awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably led to a rift among the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and he loves playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. The family head is Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on just two aspects: his work and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so invested in the family's dynamics and their personal conflicts to the point I almost overlooked this was a scary movie—which might seem like a drawback, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of its runtime depicting viewers who each relative represents, plus the ways they add to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed me to connect to the personalities sufficiently to care about their outcome—a rare feat for this style which frequently introduces individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama with slightly dark humor before making a sudden turn toward "holy shit" territory. These introductory scenes don't focus as much on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives enough time to immerse in its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the cause for this infectious condition stems from a new batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. Although we do learn a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the movie devoted a little more focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal elixir that appears to contain an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this affliction has on humans proves utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a bold choice, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very realistic, and are almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive compared to the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see some examples of questionable choices (as in typical zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her family are resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument they find rather than freezing like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a welcome realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for everything! cliché frequently used in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes loves her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they decide via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the notion that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters do show appreciation for each other feel far more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound insight about family or society, as well. Rather, it's mostly delivering scares. Yet these are effective frights, and because the movie gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result is a captivating and entertaining
