For the most part, I'm over undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, this category seems largely exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. However, the platform's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated turning out quite enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Personal Growth
One of the film's greatest strengths lies in the excellent rhythm. It kicks off with a memorable opening sequence in which a calm family gathering is violently interrupted when a vehicle crashes into the seating section. Out of the van, a very zombie-like individual stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This intense moment is then succeeded by a look back, allowing us to see this household before the disaster struck.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough time to get to know its main characters before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a ex best friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a rift between Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured but a bit inept socially, and who loves playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. The family head consists of Nes' father, the owner of a well-known natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and he appears to care about just two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is extremely tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so invested with this household's issues along with their personal conflicts to the point I almost overlooked this was a scary movie—which might seem like a drawback, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a significant portion of the film depicting viewers the identity of every relative represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on conflicting traits enabled me to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently presents individuals only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a real surprise when things eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple family interactions in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy before taking an abrupt turn into shocking territory. These introductory scenes don't focus too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides enough time to settle into its world prior to everything gets upended.
Unique Infection Source
The film also offers a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the cause for this contagious disease originates in a new batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the film had spent a little more time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion which seems to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the limited background, the impact this condition has on people proves absolutely disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a daring decision, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear very realistic, and they're almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better than the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, we see some instances of questionable choices (as in typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick an undead in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument they find instead of standing still like prey in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord once individuals start turning to the undead, which was a welcome authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains holding onto bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they decide via telephone to regroup at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—seem realistic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to push the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes those instances when these characters express appreciation for each other feel much more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep insight about family or society, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up frights. But they're effective scares, and since the movie allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and entertaining
