Generally speaking, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems largely depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. But, the platform's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Development
Among the film's strongest assets lies in the excellent pacing. It begins using a striking opening sequence in which a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like individual stumbles out proceeding attacking the partygoers. This dramatic moment is then succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to see this household prior to the disaster struck.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir actually allows the audience sufficient time to become acquainted with its main personalities prior to the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has understandably caused a falling out between the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured but socially awkward, and he loves gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. The family head consists of her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on only two things: his business and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves incredibly tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so engrossed in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama that I almost forgot this was a scary movie—which might sound like a drawback, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film depicting us who each family member represents, plus the ways they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled the audience to relate with the characters sufficiently to care about their fate—an uncommon feat for this style that often presents characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a real shock once events finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy before taking a sudden turn toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered too heavily on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient opportunity to immerse in its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
The film also offers a quite interesting explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source of this contagious disease originates in a recent sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. Although some background is provided something regarding how it started, I wish the film devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to creating a deadly potion which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the lack of context, the effect this affliction has on humans is absolutely repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a bold choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear quite realistic, and are almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of questionable choices (like any typical zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument they find instead of standing still like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord when people start turning into zombies, which was a welcome realistic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains clinging to resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they decide over the phone to regroup at a close location. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and relatable because the film doesn't try to push the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments when these characters do show appreciation for each other feel far more sincere.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound message about family or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up scares. But they're successful scares, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome is an engaging and entertaining
