For the most part, I've grown tired of zombie movies. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre feels largely depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for months. But, the platform's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations turning out quite enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Personal Development
Among the film's greatest strengths is its excellent pacing. It kicks off using a memorable opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly disrupted by a van crashes into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like stranger stumbles out and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense moment is then succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to observe this household prior to the tragedy struck.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with the primary personalities prior to the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a former best friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on her. This household head consists of her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so invested with this family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama that I almost forgot this was a scary movie—which might sound like a negative, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime to showing viewers who each relative represents, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing personalities enabled me to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style that often introduces individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of zombies to consume, thus it's a real surprise when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring slightly dark comedy before making a sudden turn toward shocking territory. These early moments don't focus too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to settle into its world prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting explanation regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this contagious disease originates in a new sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. While some background is provided a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the movie had spent a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to creating a lethal potion that appears to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the limited background, the effect this affliction has on humans is absolutely disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a bold choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and they're almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of dubious decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her family are inventive and sharp. They also don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with whatever heavy object they find instead of standing still like prey caught in lights as death approaches.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict 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 I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they decide over the phone to meet up at a nearby location. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been building for years. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable because the film doesn't try to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This causes those instances where these individuals express appreciation for each other seem much more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message regarding relatives or society, either. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. Yet these are effective frights, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable
