For the most part, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category seems mostly depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. But, the platform's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Pacing and Personal Growth
One of the film's greatest strengths is its superb pacing. It begins using a memorable initial scene where a calm family party is violently disrupted by a van crashes right into the guest area. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out and begins attacking the partygoers. This intense scene is immediately succeeded by a look back, allowing us to observe this household prior to the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually gives the audience sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a married mother whose ex best friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on her. This household patriarch consists of Nes' father, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he seems focused on only two aspects: his business and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama that I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of the film depicting us who each family member represents, plus the ways they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled the audience to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare feat for this style that often presents individuals just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to consume, thus it's a real shock once events eventually go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a Korean drama with somewhat morbid humor prior to taking a sudden turn into shocking ground. These early scenes don't focus as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides enough opportunity to immerse in its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Source
This movie also offers a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this contagious disease stems from a new sample of Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. While we do learn a bit about its origins, I wish the film devoted additional time explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of holistic medicine to creating a deadly potion which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the limited background, the effect this affliction produces on people is absolutely repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a bold choice, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear quite realistic, and they're practically guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive than the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see some examples of dubious decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with whatever heavy object is available instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights as death nears.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning to the undead, this proved a pleasantly authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they decide over the phone to meet up at a nearby location. But when Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been building for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel authentic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to push the notion that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals express appreciation toward one another seem far more sincere.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep insight regarding relatives or society, either. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. Yet these are successful frights, and since the movie gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable
