Typically, I'm over apocalyptic horror. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems largely exhausted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for some time. But, the platform's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Personal Growth
One of this movie's greatest strengths lies in the excellent rhythm. It begins with a memorable initial scene in which a calm family party is violently interrupted by a van plows into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking individual emerges and begins attacking the partygoers. This intense scene is then succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to observe the family prior to the disaster struck.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with the primary personalities prior to the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex close friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—a clearly awkward situation. Naturally, this has understandably led to a rift among the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and he enjoys playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. This household patriarch is Nes' father, who runs a popular natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and who seems to care about only two aspects: his business and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves extremely tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so invested in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked this was a scary movie—something that could sound like a drawback, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every relative represents, and how they add to the general turmoil. This focus on conflicting traits allowed the audience to connect with the characters enough to care about their fate—an uncommon accomplishment for this style that often presents individuals only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to consume, thus it's a real surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and various household exchanges in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama with slightly dark comedy prior to making a sudden turn into shocking ground. These introductory scenes don't focus as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough time to settle into its world before it gets upended.
Original Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a fairly intriguing reason for the source of the contagious transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. While we do learn something regarding its origins, I wish the film devoted additional time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to producing a deadly potion which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the lack of context, the effect this affliction has on humans is utterly repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's undead prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a bold decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also very realistic, and they're practically guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive than the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some instances of questionable choices (like any typical undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her family are inventive and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to kick an undead in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument is available rather than standing still like prey in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord when people start turning to the undead, which was a welcome realistic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes loves her family and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they agree via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. But when Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem authentic and relatable because the film doesn't try to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances when these characters express gratitude toward one another feel much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound message about family or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. Yet these are successful scares, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable
