For the most part, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category seems largely depleted nowadays. 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, managed to subvert my expectations turning out quite entertaining.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Development
One of this movie's strongest strengths lies in the superb rhythm. It begins with a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family party is violently interrupted when a vehicle plows into the guest area. Out of the van, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding attacking the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, allowing us to observe this household prior to the tragedy struck.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir truly gives viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with its main characters before the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a former best friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has predictably caused a rift between the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he loves gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. The family patriarch is her dad, who runs a well-known natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and who seems to care about just two aspects: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves extremely tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so invested in the household's issues and their personal conflicts to the point I nearly forgot this was a scary movie—something that could seem like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film to showing viewers who each family member is, plus the ways they add to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting traits enabled the audience to connect to the personalities enough to care about their outcome—a rare accomplishment in a genre which frequently presents characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, disposable victims for an army of zombies to devour, so it's a genuine shock when things eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and various household exchanges in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor prior to making an abrupt shift into "holy shit" territory. These introductory scenes don't focus as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to immerse in its world prior to everything gets upended.
Unique Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a recent sample of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. While some background is provided a bit about its origins, I wish the movie devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal elixir which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this affliction produces on people is utterly repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and are almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
Even better than the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of questionable decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available rather than freezing like a deer caught in lights as death nears.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people start turning to the undead, which was a pleasantly realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they agree over the phone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel authentic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals express appreciation for each other seem much more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound insight about family or society, either. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are successful frights, and since the movie gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome is a captivating and entertaining
