Typically, I'm over apocalyptic horror. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category feels largely depleted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 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 subvert my expectations turning out remarkably entertaining.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Growth
One of the film's strongest assets is its excellent pacing. It begins using a striking opening sequence where a calm family party is violently interrupted when a van crashes right into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like individual emerges and begins attacking the attendees. This intense scene is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe the family prior to the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir truly allows viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with its main characters before the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a ex best friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable situation. This has understandably led to a falling out between the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who loves gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to her. The family head consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and he appears to care about just two aspects: his business and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves extremely strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so invested with this household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot I was watching a horror film—which might sound like a negative, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of the film depicting us who each relative represents, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This focus on clashing traits enabled me to relate to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon accomplishment for this style which frequently introduces individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to devour, thus it's a real surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and various family interactions actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to making a sudden shift toward "holy shit" territory. These introductory scenes aren't centered too heavily on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives sufficient opportunity to settle into the setting before it gets upended.
Original Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the cause of this infectious condition originates in a recent sample from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although some background is provided something regarding how it started, I wish the film devoted a little more time on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a lethal elixir which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited background, the effect this condition produces on people is utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a bold decision, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and they're practically certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
More impressive than the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some instances of dubious decision-making (like any any good undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and sharp. They also aren't afraid to kick an undead in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available rather than freezing like a deer in headlights as death approaches.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord when people start turning to the undead, this proved a pleasantly realistic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes loves her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they decide via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments when these characters do show gratitude toward one another feel much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep message regarding relatives or society, either. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are successful scares, and because the film allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and entertaining
