Generally speaking, I'm over apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre seems largely depleted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, the platform's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations and proved quite enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Personal Development
Among this movie's greatest strengths is its excellent pacing. It kicks off using a striking initial scene where a peaceful family party gets suddenly disrupted by a vehicle crashes into the seating section. Out of the van, a very zombie-like individual emerges and begins attacking the partygoers. This intense moment is then followed by a flashback, allowing us to observe the family before the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a married mother with a former best friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—a clearly awkward dynamic. This has predictably caused a falling out between the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted but socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on Nes. The family head consists of her dad, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and he seems focused on only two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves incredibly tense.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed with this family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts to the point I almost overlooked this was a horror film—something that could seem like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of its runtime to showing us the identity of every family member represents, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting personalities enabled the audience to relate with the characters sufficiently to care about their fate—an uncommon accomplishment for this style that often introduces individuals just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to consume, so it's a genuine surprise when things eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and various household exchanges actually evoke the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a Korean drama with somewhat morbid humor before making a sudden shift toward "holy shit" ground. These early scenes aren't centered too heavily on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives sufficient opportunity to settle into its world before it gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Source
The film additionally presents a quite interesting reason regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source of this contagious disease stems from a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. Although we do learn a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the film devoted additional time explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the impact this affliction has on people proves utterly repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's undead prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a bold decision, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very realistic, and are practically certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
More impressive compared to the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some instances of dubious choices (as in typical zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument they find rather than standing still like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a pleasantly realistic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they decide via telephone to regroup at a close location. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—seem realistic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals do show gratitude for each other seem far more genuine.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight about family or community, as well. Rather, it's mostly delivering scares. But they're effective frights, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves a captivating and entertaining
