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, the genre seems largely depleted 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 latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out quite enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Growth
Among the film's strongest strengths is its superb rhythm. It begins using a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly disrupted when a van plows right into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual emerges proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This intense scene is then followed by a look back, giving viewers to observe the family before the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has understandably caused a rift among the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and who enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household head is Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two aspects: his business and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is extremely strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so engrossed in the household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a drawback, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime to showing us the identity of every relative represents, and how they contribute to the general turmoil. This focus on clashing personalities enabled me to connect to the personalities sufficiently to care about their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre that often introduces individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to devour, so it's a real surprise when things eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and various household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy before making a sudden shift into "holy shit" ground. These early scenes don't focus as much on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still provides sufficient opportunity to immerse in the setting before everything gets upended.
Unique Zombification Source
This movie also offers a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a recent sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. Although some background is provided a bit about its origins, I wish the movie devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a lethal elixir which seems to include an extremely infectious virus. Despite the lack of background, the impact this affliction has on people proves absolutely repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a bold choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very realistic, and they're almost guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are a few examples of questionable choices (like any any good zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and sharp. They also aren't afraid to strike an undead in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with the nearest heavy object they find instead of standing still like prey caught in lights as death nears.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord once individuals start turning to the undead, this proved a pleasantly realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for everything! cliché often seen in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes loves her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals do show appreciation toward one another feel far more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep insight about family or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are effective frights, and since the movie allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves a captivating and enjoyable
