Generally speaking, I'm over undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre feels 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 defy my expectations turning out quite entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Development
One of this movie's greatest assets is its excellent pacing. It begins using a memorable initial scene in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly disrupted by a vehicle plows right into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual stumbles out and begins assaulting the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to observe the family before the disaster occurred.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough time to get to know the primary characters prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a married mother with a former best friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably led to a falling out between the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and who loves playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. The family head is Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and who seems to care about just two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so engrossed in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly overlooked this was a horror film—something that could seem like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of its runtime depicting viewers who each relative represents, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled me to relate to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently introduces characters only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a real shock once events finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences of the party and the multiple family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking a sudden turn into "holy shit" ground. These introductory moments aren't centered too heavily on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to immerse in its world prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Source
This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting reason for the source of the contagious transformation. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause for this infectious condition originates in a recent sample from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding its origins, I wish the movie devoted a little more time explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion that appears to include a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the limited context, the effect this condition produces on people is absolutely repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's undead are quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a bold choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also very realistic, and are almost certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see a few instances of dubious choices (as in typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever heavy object is available rather than standing still like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning to the undead, which was a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for everything! cliché frequently used in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains holding onto resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they agree over the phone to meet up at a nearby spot. But when Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother 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 doesn't try to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals express gratitude for each other seem much more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep insight regarding relatives or community, either. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're successful scares, and because the movie allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable
