Generally speaking, I've grown tired of undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category feels largely exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. But, the platform's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations and proved quite enjoyable.
Excellent Pacing and Character Growth
Among this movie's greatest assets lies in the superb rhythm. It begins using a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family party is violently interrupted by a vehicle plows into the seating section. Out of the van, a very zombie-like stranger emerges and begins assaulting the attendees. This intense scene is immediately followed by a flashback, allowing us to see this household before the disaster occurred.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough time to become acquainted with the primary characters before the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose former best friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable situation. This has understandably led to a falling out between Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who loves playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on her. This household head is Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on just two aspects: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so invested in the family's dynamics and their personal conflicts that I nearly forgot I was watching a scary movie—which might seem like a drawback, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film depicting viewers the identity of every relative is, and how they add to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting personalities enabled me to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style that often presents individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to devour, thus it's a genuine surprise once events finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and various family interactions actually evoke the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades as a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy before making a sudden shift toward shocking ground. These early scenes don't focus as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient opportunity to settle into its world before everything gets upended.
Original Zombification Origin
This movie additionally presents a quite intriguing reason for the source of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the source for this contagious disease originates in a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. While some background is provided a bit about how it started, I wish the movie devoted a little more time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of context, the impact this affliction has on humans is absolutely disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's undead are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear quite convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, we see some examples of questionable decision-making (like any any good undead film), however generally, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and sharp. They also aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument they find rather than standing still like a deer caught in lights while danger nears.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, this proved a welcome realistic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to meet up at a close location. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been building over time. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to promote the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters do show gratitude for each other feel much more genuine.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound insight about family or community, either. Instead, it's mostly serving up scares. Yet these are successful scares, and because the movie gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome is an engaging and entertaining
