For the most part, I'm over zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems mostly exhausted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for months. But, the platform's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out quite enjoyable.
Impressive Pacing and Character Development
Among the film's strongest strengths is its excellent rhythm. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence where a calm family gathering gets suddenly interrupted by a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like stranger stumbles out and begins assaulting the attendees. This dramatic moment is then succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to see this household before the tragedy occurred.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually allows the audience enough time to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a married mother with a former best friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably led to a falling out between Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and he loves playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. The family patriarch is her dad, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two aspects: his business and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves extremely strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot I was watching a scary movie—which might sound like a drawback, but in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of the film depicting viewers the identity of every relative is, and how they add to the general turmoil. This focus on conflicting personalities allowed the audience to connect to the personalities enough to care about their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style that often presents characters only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine shock once events eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various family interactions in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy before making a sudden turn toward shocking ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered too heavily on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough opportunity to settle into its world prior to everything gets upended.
Unique Zombification Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing reason regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the cause for this infectious condition originates in a new batch from Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. Although we do learn something regarding its origins, I wish the movie devoted a little more time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the limited background, the effect this condition produces on people proves utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear quite realistic, and are almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some instances of questionable decision-making (like any typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick an undead in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with the nearest heavy object they find instead of standing still like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to meet up at a close location. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been building over time. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments when these characters express gratitude for each other seem far more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep insight regarding relatives or community, as well. Instead, it's mostly serving up scares. Yet these are successful scares, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves an engaging and entertaining
