For the most part, I've grown tired of undead films. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre feels largely depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. However, the platform's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Character Growth
One of the film's greatest strengths is its superb pacing. It begins using a memorable opening sequence where a calm family gathering gets suddenly interrupted by a van crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like stranger stumbles out and begins attacking the partygoers. This dramatic moment is then followed by a flashback, allowing us to see this household prior to the disaster struck.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows the audience sufficient time to get to know its main characters prior to the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a former best friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. Naturally, this has predictably led to a falling out among the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and who loves playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch is Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and who appears to care about only two aspects: his work and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so invested with this family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts to the point I almost forgot I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a negative, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of its runtime depicting us the identity of every family member is, plus the ways they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This focus on clashing traits enabled the audience to relate to the personalities sufficiently to care about their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently presents characters just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to consume, so it's a genuine shock when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking a sudden shift toward shocking territory. These early moments don't focus too heavily on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough opportunity to immerse in its world before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting reason regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Instead of a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a new sample from Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. While we do learn something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the movie devoted additional time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this condition produces on people is utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear very realistic, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
More impressive than the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are some examples of questionable decision-making (like any any good zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike an undead in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like prey in headlights as death approaches.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord once individuals start turning to the undead, this proved a pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for everything! trope often seen in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they decide via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been building for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel authentic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters express gratitude toward one another seem much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight about family or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're successful scares, and since the film gives each character sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves an engaging and entertaining
