For the most part, I've had my fill of undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category seems largely depleted 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 horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Development
Among this movie's strongest strengths lies in the superb rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable opening sequence where a calm family party gets suddenly interrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like stranger stumbles out and begins assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic scene is immediately succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to observe the family prior to the tragedy struck.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir truly allows the audience sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex close friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has understandably led to a falling out among Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who loves gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch is Nes' father, who runs a well-known natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on just two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is extremely strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts to the point I almost overlooked I was watching a scary movie—something that could sound like a drawback, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a significant amount of the film depicting us the identity of every family member represents, and how they add to the general turmoil. This emphasis on clashing personalities allowed the audience to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style which frequently introduces characters only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a real shock once events eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and various household exchanges in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a Korean drama with somewhat morbid comedy before taking an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory scenes don't focus as much on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir still provides sufficient opportunity to settle into the setting prior to it gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Source
The film also offers a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Instead of a unintended lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. Although we do learn a bit about how it started, I wish the film devoted additional focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal elixir which seems to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the limited context, the impact this affliction produces on humans is absolutely disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a bold decision, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also quite convincing, and are almost guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better than the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, we see a few instances of questionable choices (like any typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family are inventive and sharp. They also don't hesitate to kick an undead in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument is available rather than freezing like prey in headlights while danger nears.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a pleasantly realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for everything! cliché often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they decide over the phone to meet up at a close spot. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters do show appreciation toward one another feel much more sincere.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight regarding relatives or society, as well. Instead, it's mostly delivering frights. Yet these are successful scares, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and entertaining
