Typically, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre seems largely depleted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. But, the platform's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated and proved quite enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Development
One of this movie's strongest assets lies in the superb rhythm. It begins using a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted by a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding attacking the partygoers. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a look back, allowing us to see this household prior to the disaster struck.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir truly allows viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with its main personalities prior to the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured yet socially awkward, and who loves gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. The family patriarch consists of her dad, who runs a popular natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and he seems to care about just two aspects: his business and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so invested with this family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts that I nearly overlooked this was a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, but in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of the film depicting us the identity of every relative is, and how they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled the audience to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare feat in a genre which frequently introduces characters only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to devour, thus it's a real shock when things finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring slightly dark comedy before making an abrupt turn into "holy shit" territory. These early scenes don't focus as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides sufficient opportunity to immerse in its world before everything gets upended.
Unique Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding its origins, I wish the movie devoted additional time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to creating a deadly potion which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the impact this affliction has on people proves utterly disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a bold decision, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear quite realistic, and are almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Of course, we see a few instances of questionable decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and sharp. They also don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with whatever heavy object is available instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger nears.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord when people start turning to the undead, this proved a welcome realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for everything! cliché frequently used in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they agree 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 brewing over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—seem authentic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes those instances where these individuals do show gratitude toward one another seem far more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound insight about family or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're successful scares, and because the movie allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable
