Typically, I'm over apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre feels mostly depleted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. However, the platform's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations and proved quite entertaining.
Impressive Pacing and Character Development
Among the film's greatest strengths is its excellent pacing. It kicks off using a striking initial scene where a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly interrupted when a van plows into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense scene is immediately succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to see the family before the disaster struck.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly allows viewers enough opportunity to become acquainted with its main personalities before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a married mother whose former best friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured yet socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on Nes. This household patriarch is Nes' father, who runs a well-known natural medicine company named Wani Waras, and who seems to care about just two aspects: his business and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is extremely tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts that I almost forgot I was watching a horror film—something that could sound like a drawback, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime depicting us who each relative represents, and how they add to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting personalities enabled the audience to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon accomplishment for this style which frequently introduces characters just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to consume, thus it's a real shock once events finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy prior to taking a sudden turn into shocking territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to settle into the setting before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
The film additionally presents a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease originates in a new sample from Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. While we do learn something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted additional time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to creating a lethal potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Despite the limited context, the effect this affliction has on humans is absolutely disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring decision, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and are practically certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive than the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are some examples of dubious choices (like any typical undead film), but generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with the nearest heavy object is available instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights as death approaches.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict when people start turning to the undead, 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 everything! cliché frequently used in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close location. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals express appreciation toward one another feel much more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight about family or society, either. Rather, it's mostly delivering scares. Yet these are effective frights, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and entertaining
