Typically, I've had my fill of zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre seems largely exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. But, the platform's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations and proved remarkably entertaining.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Development
Among the film's greatest strengths lies in the excellent rhythm. It begins using a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family party is violently interrupted when a vehicle plows into the guest area. Out of the van, a very zombie-like stranger stumbles out and begins attacking the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately followed by a look back, allowing us to observe the family before the disaster occurred.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly gives the audience enough opportunity to get to know the primary personalities prior to the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—a clearly awkward situation. This has predictably led to a falling out among the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and he enjoys gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on Nes. The family head is Nes' father, the owner of a popular natural medicine company named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on only two aspects: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is incredibly tense.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so invested with this family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a negative, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a significant amount of the film to showing viewers the identity of every relative represents, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This focus on conflicting traits enabled me to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare feat for this style which frequently introduces individuals just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to devour, so it's a real surprise when things eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and various family interactions actually evoke the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a K-Drama with somewhat morbid humor prior to taking a sudden turn toward shocking territory. These introductory scenes don't focus too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides enough time to settle into its world prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Origin
The film also offers a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition originates in a new sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent additional focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to include an extremely infectious virus. Despite the lack of background, the effect this affliction produces on humans is absolutely disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear quite convincing, and they're almost guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, we see a few instances of dubious decision-making (like any any good undead film), however generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and sharp. They also aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with the nearest heavy object is available instead of standing still like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Realistic Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord once individuals start turning to the undead, which was a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they decide over the phone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been building over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—seem realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters do show appreciation for each other feel far more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up scares. But they're effective frights, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to develop and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable
