Typically, I'm over apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category feels largely exhausted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for months. But, the platform's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out quite enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Personal Development
One of this movie's strongest assets is its superb pacing. It kicks off with a memorable initial scene where a calm family gathering is violently interrupted when a vehicle plows right into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking individual stumbles out and begins attacking the partygoers. This intense scene is then succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to observe this household prior to the disaster struck.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient opportunity to get to know its main personalities prior to the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a married mother whose former close friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—a clearly awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. The family patriarch is Nes' father, the owner of a well-known natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and who appears to care about only two aspects: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so engrossed in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a significant portion of its runtime to showing viewers who each family member represents, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on conflicting personalities allowed the audience to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—a rare feat in a genre which frequently presents characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a genuine surprise when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring slightly dark humor prior to taking an abrupt turn into "holy shit" territory. These early scenes aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to settle into the setting prior to it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing reason regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. Although some background is provided something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film devoted a little more time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a lethal potion which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the impact this affliction produces on people proves utterly repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also very realistic, and are practically guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of dubious choices (as in any good zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and sharp. They also don't hesitate to kick an undead in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument is available rather than freezing like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict when people begin transforming to the undead, which was a welcome authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains clinging to bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree over the phone to meet up at a close spot. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes those instances where these individuals express appreciation toward one another feel far more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound insight regarding relatives or society, either. Instead, it's mostly delivering frights. Yet these are effective frights, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable
