Generally speaking, I'm over undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category feels mostly exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for months. However, the platform's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations turning out quite entertaining.
Impressive Rhythm and Personal Growth
Among this movie's greatest strengths lies in the excellent rhythm. It begins with a striking initial scene in which a calm family party is violently interrupted by a vehicle plows into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger emerges and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe the family prior to the disaster struck.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir truly gives the audience enough time to get to know its main characters before the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother whose former best friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably caused a rift between Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured but socially awkward, and he loves playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. The family head is Nes' father, the owner of a well-known natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and he appears to care about just two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed with this household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost overlooked this was a scary movie—something that could seem like a negative, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of the film depicting us who each family member is, and how they contribute to the general turmoil. This focus on clashing traits enabled me to relate with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—a rare feat in a genre that often presents characters just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, disposable victims for an army of the undead to devour, thus it's a real surprise when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and various family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy before taking an abrupt turn toward shocking ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives sufficient opportunity to immerse in its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a recent sample from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. While some background is provided a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the movie had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to contain a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this condition produces on humans is utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear very realistic, and are practically guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
More impressive than the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some examples of questionable choices (like any any good undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike an undead in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument they find rather than freezing like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord when people start turning into zombies, which was a pleasantly realistic subversion 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 apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still clinging to bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they decide via telephone to regroup at a close spot. But when Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been building for years. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to promote the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This makes the moments when these characters express appreciation toward one another feel much more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep insight about family or community, as well. Instead, it's mostly serving up scares. Yet these are successful frights, and since the movie gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
