For the most part, I've grown tired of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre feels largely exhausted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for months. But, the platform's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.
Excellent Pacing and Character Growth
One of the film's strongest strengths is its superb rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene where a peaceful family party is violently disrupted by a vehicle plows into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like individual stumbles out and begins attacking the partygoers. This intense scene is then succeeded by a look back, allowing us to observe the family prior to the tragedy occurred.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough opportunity to get to know its main characters before the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose former close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has predictably led to a rift between Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who enjoys playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on Nes. This household head consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two aspects: his work and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves extremely strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts to the point I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could sound like a drawback, but in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a significant amount of its runtime depicting us the identity of every relative is, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting traits allowed the audience to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat in a genre that often introduces individuals only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of the undead to devour, so it's a real shock when things finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and various family interactions in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a K-Drama with slightly dark comedy prior to taking an abrupt shift toward shocking ground. These early moments aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough time to immerse in the setting before it gets upended.
Unique Infection Origin
The film also offers a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading transformation. Instead of a unintended lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause for this infectious condition stems from a new batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. While some background is provided a bit about its origins, I wish the movie had spent a little more time on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of background, the impact this affliction produces on people proves absolutely repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a bold decision, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and they're almost certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
More impressive than the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see some examples of dubious choices (like any any good zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick an undead in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord when people begin transforming into zombies, this proved a welcome authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they decide over the phone to regroup at a nearby location. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters do show appreciation for each other seem far more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep message about family or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're effective frights, and because the film gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable
