For the most part, I'm over zombie movies. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre seems largely depleted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. However, the platform's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Development
Among this movie's greatest assets is its superb rhythm. It kicks off using a striking initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted when a vehicle plows into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking individual emerges and begins assaulting the attendees. This intense scene is then succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to observe the family prior to the disaster struck.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough opportunity to become acquainted with its main characters before the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a ex best friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has predictably caused a rift among Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured but socially awkward, and he enjoys gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. This household head is her dad, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he seems focused on only two things: his business and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so invested in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly overlooked this was a scary movie—something that could sound like a negative, but in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of the film to showing viewers who each relative represents, and how they add to the general turmoil. This focus on conflicting personalities enabled the audience to relate to the personalities sufficiently to care about their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style that often introduces individuals only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to devour, so it's a genuine surprise once events finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and various household exchanges actually evoke the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy prior to taking an abrupt turn into "holy shit" territory. These introductory moments don't focus as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives enough opportunity to settle into its world prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a quite intriguing reason regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this infectious condition stems from a new sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. Although some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the film had spent a little more time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir which seems to include an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the impact this condition has on people proves utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a bold decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and they're almost certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
More impressive than the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see a few instances of dubious decision-making (as in any good undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object they find instead of standing still like prey in headlights while danger nears.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord when people start turning into zombies, which was a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes loves 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 via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—feel authentic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals do show gratitude for each other seem much more sincere.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound insight about family or society, as well. Rather, it's mostly delivering frights. But they're effective scares, and because the movie allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable
