🔗 Share this article

Generally speaking, I'm over apocalyptic horror. While favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre seems largely exhausted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for months. However, the platform's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated and proved remarkably enjoyable.

Superb Rhythm and Character Growth

Among the film's strongest assets lies in the superb rhythm. It begins using a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly disrupted when a van plows right into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual emerges and begins attacking the partygoers. This intense scene is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe this household prior to the disaster occurred.

Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir truly gives viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary personalities prior to the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex best friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. Naturally, this has predictably caused a rift between the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and who enjoys gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on her. The family patriarch is Nes' father, who runs a well-known natural medicine company named Wani Waras, and he appears to care about only two aspects: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is incredibly tense.

Engaged in the Conflict

I became so invested in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked this was a scary movie—something that could seem like a drawback, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime depicting viewers who each family member represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting traits enabled me to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon accomplishment for this style which frequently introduces individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of the undead to consume, so it's a real shock once events eventually deteriorate.

Reminiscent of Parasite

The opening sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama with slightly dark humor prior to taking an abrupt turn into shocking ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives enough time to immerse in the setting before it gets turned upside down.

Original Infection Source

The film also offers a fairly interesting reason regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition stems from a new sample of Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the movie had spent a little more focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the impact this affliction has on humans is absolutely repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a bold decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very realistic, and they're practically certain to trigger one's trypophobia.

Capable Characters

More impressive than the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some examples of dubious choices (as in typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with whatever heavy object is available rather than standing still like a deer in headlights as death nears.

Realistic Familial Discord

The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord when people begin transforming into zombies, which was a pleasantly realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree over the phone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals 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 is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes those instances when these characters express appreciation toward one another seem far more sincere.

Predictable Ending

In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep message regarding relatives or society, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're effective scares, and since the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable