Typically, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category seems largely depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for months. However, the platform's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Character Development
One of the film's strongest assets is its excellent pacing. It kicks off with a striking initial scene where a peaceful family party is violently interrupted by a van crashes right into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like stranger stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a look back, allowing us to see the family prior to the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly gives the audience enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably caused a rift between Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and he loves gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. The family patriarch is her dad, who runs a well-known natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two things: his work and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves incredibly tense.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so invested in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot this was a horror film—which might seem like a drawback, but in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime to showing viewers who each family member represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed me to relate to the personalities sufficiently to care about their outcome—an uncommon feat in a genre that often presents characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to devour, thus it's a genuine surprise when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy before making a sudden turn toward shocking ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides sufficient time to settle into the setting before everything gets upended.
Original Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the cause for this contagious disease originates in a new batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. Although some background is provided a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the film devoted additional time on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to producing a deadly elixir which seems to contain a highly contagious virus. Despite the limited background, the impact this affliction has on humans proves absolutely repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear quite realistic, and are practically certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are some instances of questionable decision-making (like any any good zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike an undead in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with whatever heavy object they find instead of freezing like prey in headlights while danger nears.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict once individuals start turning to the undead, which was a welcome realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains clinging to resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they agree over the phone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try to push the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters do show gratitude for each other feel far more sincere.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep insight regarding relatives or society, either. Rather, it's primarily delivering scares. Yet these are effective frights, and since the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
