For the most part, I'm over apocalyptic horror. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems mostly depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for some time. But, the platform's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations and proved remarkably entertaining.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Development
Among the film's greatest strengths is its superb rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted when a vehicle plows into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking individual emerges and begins attacking the partygoers. This dramatic moment is immediately succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to observe this household before the disaster struck.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir truly gives the audience enough opportunity to get to know the primary personalities before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—a clearly awkward dynamic. This has understandably led to a rift between Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he loves gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on Nes. This household head is her dad, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on just two aspects: his business and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so invested with this family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama that I almost forgot I was watching a horror film—something that could sound like a drawback, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film to showing us the identity of every relative represents, and how they add to the overall dysfunction. This focus on clashing personalities enabled the audience to relate with the characters enough to care about their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently presents individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to devour, so it's a real shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a Korean drama with slightly dark humor before taking a sudden turn toward "holy shit" territory. These early moments don't focus too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives enough time to immerse in its world before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Source
This movie also offers a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the source of this contagious disease originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted a little more focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to producing a deadly potion which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the limited background, the impact this condition has on humans is utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very realistic, and they're almost certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see some instances of dubious decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick an undead in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with the nearest heavy object is available rather than freezing like a deer in headlights while danger nears.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals start turning to the undead, which was a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to bitterness over his betrayal 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 is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This causes the moments where these individuals do show gratitude for each other seem much more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound message about family or society, as well. Instead, it's primarily delivering frights. Yet these are effective scares, and since the movie gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome is an engaging and enjoyable
