Typically, I'm over undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre feels mostly exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. However, the platform's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Development
Among this movie's greatest assets is its excellent pacing. It kicks off with a striking initial scene in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly disrupted by a van crashes into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like stranger stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a flashback, allowing us to see this household prior to the disaster struck.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough time to get to know its main personalities before the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a married mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has predictably led to a rift between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. The family head is her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and he appears to care about just two things: his work and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed with this household's issues and their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked I was watching a scary movie—which might seem like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film depicting us the identity of every family member is, and how they add to the general turmoil. This focus on conflicting traits allowed the audience to connect to the personalities enough to care about their fate—a rare feat in a genre that often introduces characters just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine surprise once events finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and various family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a K-Drama with slightly dark humor before taking a sudden turn toward shocking ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered too heavily on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient opportunity to immerse in the setting prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a quite interesting reason regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the source for this contagious disease stems from a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the movie had spent a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir which seems to include an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this affliction produces on humans is utterly disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a bold decision, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also quite realistic, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, we see some instances of questionable decision-making (like any any good zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and sharp. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever heavy object they find rather than standing still like a deer in headlights while danger nears.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord once individuals start turning into zombies, this proved a welcome realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for everything! cliché often seen in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree via telephone to meet up at a close location. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try to push the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This causes those instances when these characters express appreciation toward one another feel far more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound insight regarding relatives or society, either. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're effective scares, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the outcome proves a captivating and entertaining
