Typically, I'm over apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category feels mostly exhausted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. But, the platform's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out quite enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Growth
Among this movie's greatest assets lies in the superb rhythm. It begins using a memorable opening sequence in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly interrupted when a van crashes right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very zombie-like stranger stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This dramatic moment is then followed by a look back, giving viewers to see the family before the tragedy struck.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir truly allows the audience enough opportunity to get to know the primary personalities before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has predictably caused a rift among Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who enjoys gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household head consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and he appears focused on only two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is extremely strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so invested with this household's issues along with their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked this was a horror film—something that could sound like a drawback, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime to showing us the identity of every relative represents, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This focus on conflicting personalities enabled me to relate with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently presents individuals just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to consume, so it's a real surprise once events finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking a sudden turn toward shocking ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered too heavily on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives enough opportunity to immerse in the setting prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
The film additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition stems from a recent batch from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the movie had spent additional focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal elixir which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Despite the lack of background, the effect this affliction has on humans is absolutely disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a bold choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and are almost certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some instances of dubious choices (like any any good undead film), however generally, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to strike an undead in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with the nearest heavy object is available rather than standing still like a deer in headlights while danger nears.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict when people start turning to the undead, which was a pleasantly authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for everything! cliché frequently used in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been building for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—seem authentic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This causes those instances when these characters do show gratitude for each other feel much more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound message regarding relatives or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are successful scares, and because the movie gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result proves an engaging and entertaining
