Typically, I'm over undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, this category feels mostly depleted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. But, the platform's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated and proved remarkably entertaining.
Impressive Rhythm and Personal Growth
Among this movie's strongest strengths is its superb rhythm. It begins with a memorable initial scene where a peaceful family party gets suddenly interrupted by a vehicle plows into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense scene is immediately succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to see the family before the disaster occurred.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a married mother whose ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. Naturally, this has understandably led to a rift among Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured but a bit inept socially, and he loves playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. The family head is her dad, who runs a popular natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and he seems focused on just two things: his business and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves extremely strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed with this family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot I was watching a scary movie—something that could seem like a negative, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of the film depicting us the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they add to the general turmoil. This focus on conflicting personalities enabled me to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre that often introduces characters just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to consume, so it's a genuine shock once events finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy before taking a sudden shift into "holy shit" territory. These early moments don't focus as much on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still gives sufficient time to immerse in its world before everything gets upended.
Original Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source for this contagious disease originates in a recent batch from Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. Although some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the film devoted a little more time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal elixir that appears to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the limited context, the effect this condition produces on people is utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a bold decision, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also very realistic, and they're practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few examples of dubious decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and sharp. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with the nearest heavy object is available instead of freezing like prey caught in lights as death nears.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord once individuals 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 forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they decide over the phone to meet up at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building for years. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem realistic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This causes the moments where these individuals express appreciation for each other feel far more sincere.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound insight regarding relatives or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're effective scares, and since the film gives each character sufficient space to grow and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the result is an engaging and enjoyable
