For the most part, I've grown tired of zombie movies. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category feels mostly exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for months. However, the platform's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Character Growth
Among this movie's greatest assets lies in the superb pacing. It begins using a memorable opening sequence where a calm family gathering gets suddenly interrupted when a van crashes right into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger emerges and begins attacking the partygoers. This intense scene is then succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to see the family prior to the disaster occurred.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough opportunity to become acquainted with its main personalities before the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a former close friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably led to a falling out between the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who loves gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. This household patriarch consists of Nes' father, the owner of a well-known natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and he seems to care about only two aspects: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves incredibly strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so invested with this household's issues and their personal conflicts to the point I nearly forgot this was a scary movie—which might sound like a negative, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of its runtime to showing us who each family member represents, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This focus on clashing traits enabled me to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare feat for this style which frequently introduces characters only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to devour, so it's a real surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and the multiple family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama featuring slightly dark comedy before taking an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" territory. These introductory scenes aren't centered too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides sufficient time to settle into the setting prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Source
This movie also offers a quite intriguing reason regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source for this contagious disease originates in a recent sample from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the limited background, the impact this condition has on people proves utterly disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a bold choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and are practically guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
More impressive compared to the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see a few examples of dubious decision-making (like any any good undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives are inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like prey in headlights while danger nears.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a welcome realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes loves her family and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains clinging to resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they agree over the phone to meet up at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and understandable because the film doesn't try to push the idea that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances when these characters express appreciation for each other seem much more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep message about family or society, either. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are successful scares, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the outcome is a captivating and enjoyable
