Generally speaking, I'm over apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems largely depleted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. However, the platform's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out quite entertaining.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Growth
One of the film's greatest strengths is its superb rhythm. It kicks off with a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted by a vehicle plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking stranger emerges proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense scene is immediately followed by a look back, giving viewers to observe this household before the tragedy occurred.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir truly gives the audience sufficient time to become acquainted with its main characters prior to the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex best friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—a clearly awkward dynamic. This has predictably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and who enjoys gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. This household head is her dad, the owner of a well-known natural medicine company named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on only two things: his business and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so engrossed with this household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot I was watching a scary movie—which might sound like a negative, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of the film depicting us who each family member is, and how they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled me to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style which frequently introduces characters just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine surprise once events eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor prior to taking a sudden shift toward shocking ground. These introductory moments don't focus as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient opportunity to immerse in the setting before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a fairly intriguing reason regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause for this contagious disease originates in a new sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. Although some background is provided something regarding how it started, I wish the film devoted additional time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to creating a lethal potion that appears to contain a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of context, the effect this affliction produces on humans proves utterly repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear very realistic, and they're practically guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see some instances of dubious decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object they find rather than freezing like prey caught in lights while danger nears.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord once individuals start turning to the undead, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they agree over the phone to meet up at a close 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 building over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances when these characters do show appreciation for each other feel far more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound insight regarding relatives or community, either. Instead, it's mostly delivering frights. But they're successful scares, and since the film allows every personality enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result proves an engaging and entertaining
