Generally speaking, I'm over apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre seems mostly depleted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. However, Netflix's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Pacing and Personal Growth
Among this movie's strongest strengths is its superb rhythm. It kicks off with a memorable opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted by a vehicle crashes into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual emerges and begins assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic moment is then followed by a flashback, allowing us to see this household prior to the tragedy struck.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the carnage begins. There's Nes, a married mother whose former close friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—a clearly awkward situation. Naturally, this has understandably caused a rift between the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and he loves playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. The family head consists of her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and who appears to care about just two aspects: his business and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so invested with this household's issues along with their personal conflicts that I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could sound like a negative, but in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of its runtime depicting us who each family member represents, plus the ways they add to the general turmoil. This focus on clashing traits enabled me to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment for this style which frequently presents individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a genuine surprise when things finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and the multiple family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking an abrupt turn toward shocking ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives enough time to settle into its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a quite interesting reason regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the source for this contagious disease stems from a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. While we do learn something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the movie had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir that appears to include a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this affliction produces on people proves utterly repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and they're practically certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive than the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Of course, we see a few instances of dubious choices (like any typical zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike an undead in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with whatever heavy object they find instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger nears.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict when people begin transforming to the undead, which was a welcome authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for everything! cliché frequently used in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they decide via telephone to regroup at a nearby location. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the notion that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This causes those instances where these individuals express gratitude for each other feel much more sincere.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound insight about family or society, as well. Instead, it's mostly serving up scares. But they're effective scares, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is an engaging and entertaining
