Typically, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. While favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre feels largely depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for months. But, the platform's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated and proved remarkably entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Development
One of this movie's greatest strengths lies in the excellent rhythm. It kicks off with a memorable opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted when a van crashes right into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like individual emerges and begins assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to see this household before the disaster occurred.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows the audience enough opportunity to get to know the primary personalities before the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—a clearly awkward situation. This has predictably caused a falling out among the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured yet socially awkward, and who enjoys playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. The family head consists of Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves extremely tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so engrossed with this family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot this was a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of its runtime to showing us who each family member is, plus the ways they add to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed me to connect with the characters enough to care about their outcome—a rare accomplishment in a genre that often presents characters only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a real shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama with slightly dark comedy before taking an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" territory. These early scenes don't focus too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient time to settle into its world before it gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a fairly intriguing reason regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease originates in a recent sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. Although we do learn a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the film devoted additional focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this affliction has on people proves utterly repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear very realistic, and they're almost certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
Even better than the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some instances of questionable choices (like any typical undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and sharp. They also aren't afraid to strike an undead in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with the nearest heavy object is available rather than standing still like a deer in headlights while danger nears.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals start turning to the undead, which was a pleasantly authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still clinging to bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they decide over the phone to meet up at a nearby location. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel realistic and understandable because the film doesn't try to push the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals do show appreciation toward one another feel much more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep message regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up frights. Yet these are effective scares, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is an engaging and entertaining
