Typically, I'm over apocalyptic horror. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre feels largely exhausted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, the platform's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Character Development
Among this movie's greatest assets is its superb pacing. It begins with a memorable opening sequence in which a calm family gathering is violently interrupted when a vehicle crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding attacking the attendees. This intense scene is then succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe this household before the tragedy occurred.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir actually allows the audience enough opportunity to become acquainted with its main characters before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a former close friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has predictably led to a falling out among the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured but socially awkward, and who loves gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to her. The family head consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on just two things: his work and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is incredibly tense.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so invested in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot I was watching a scary movie—something that could sound like a negative, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they add to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits allowed me to connect to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—a rare feat in a genre that often presents individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to devour, thus it's a real surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and the multiple family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama with slightly dark comedy prior to taking a sudden turn toward shocking territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to settle into its world prior to everything gets upended.
Unique Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the contagious transformation. Instead of an accidental lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this contagious disease originates in a new sample from Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. Although we do learn something regarding its origins, I wish the movie had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to creating a lethal elixir which seems to contain a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of background, the effect this affliction has on people is absolutely disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and they're practically certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive compared to the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see some examples of questionable choices (like any typical zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike an undead in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with whatever heavy object they find instead of standing still like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict when people begin transforming to the undead, this proved a welcome authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they decide over the phone to meet up at a close location. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to promote the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals do show appreciation toward one another seem much more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound message regarding relatives or community, either. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're effective scares, and since the film allows every personality enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result is a captivating and entertaining
