For the most part, I've had my fill of zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre feels largely depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. However, the platform's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Development
One of the film's greatest strengths lies in the excellent pacing. It begins with a memorable initial scene where a calm family gathering gets suddenly disrupted by a vehicle crashes right into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like individual emerges proceeding attacking the partygoers. This intense scene is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to see the family prior to the disaster occurred.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient opportunity to get to know its main characters before the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a former close friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has understandably caused a rift between the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who enjoys gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household patriarch is her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he appears to care about only two things: his work and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is incredibly tense.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so invested in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked this was a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of the film depicting viewers who each relative is, and how they contribute to the general turmoil. This focus on clashing traits enabled the audience to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare feat for this style that often presents individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to devour, thus it's a genuine surprise once events eventually go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy before taking an abrupt turn into "holy shit" ground. These early scenes aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives enough opportunity to settle into its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Source
The film also offers a quite interesting reason for the source of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. Although we do learn a bit about its origins, I wish the film had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion which seems to include an extremely infectious virus. Despite the lack of context, the effect this affliction has on people proves utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear very convincing, and they're almost guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see a few examples of questionable choices (as in typical zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and sharp. They also don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with the nearest heavy object they find instead of standing still like prey in headlights while danger nears.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord when people begin transforming into zombies, which was a welcome authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby location. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments where these individuals express appreciation toward one another feel far more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound insight regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are effective frights, and since the film allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result proves a captivating and enjoyable
