Typically, I'm over zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category seems largely depleted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for some time. However, the platform's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Personal Development
One of the film's greatest strengths is its superb pacing. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene where a peaceful family party gets suddenly disrupted by a vehicle plows into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense moment is then followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe the family before the tragedy struck.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly allows the audience enough time to become acquainted with its main personalities before the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex close friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—a clearly awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a rift among the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and he loves gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have recently been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch consists of Nes' father, who runs a well-known natural medicine company named Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two things: his business and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves extremely tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so invested with this family's dynamics and their personal conflicts to the point I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film to showing us who each relative is, and how they add to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled the audience to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat for this style which frequently introduces individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to devour, so it's a genuine shock when things finally go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and the multiple family interactions in fact evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy before taking an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" territory. These introductory scenes don't focus too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to immerse in its world prior to it gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Source
This movie also offers a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a recent batch from Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. Although some background is provided a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted additional time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir that appears to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the lack of background, the effect this condition has on people proves absolutely disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a daring decision, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear quite convincing, and they're almost certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are some instances of dubious decision-making (like any typical zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with whatever blunt instrument they find instead of standing still like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict when people start turning to the undead, which was a welcome realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for everything! trope frequently used in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still holding onto resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they decide over the phone to meet up at a close location. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This causes the moments where these individuals do show appreciation for each other feel far more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep message about family or society, as well. Instead, it's primarily delivering frights. Yet these are effective frights, and because the film gives each character enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable
