Typically, I'm over zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category feels largely depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for some time. But, the platform's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out quite entertaining.
Impressive Pacing and Personal Development
Among this movie's strongest strengths is its superb pacing. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence in which a calm family gathering is violently interrupted when a vehicle crashes into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking stranger stumbles out and begins assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a look back, allowing us to see this household before the disaster struck.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough opportunity to get to know its main characters before the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a married mother whose ex close friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a rift among Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and he loves playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch consists of her dad, who runs a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he appears to care about only two things: his work and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so invested in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could sound like a negative, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film to showing us who each relative is, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled me to relate with the characters sufficiently to care about their fate—an uncommon accomplishment for this style that often introduces individuals only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of the undead to devour, so it's a real shock once events finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a K-Drama with somewhat morbid humor prior to taking a sudden turn toward shocking ground. These introductory scenes don't focus as much on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient opportunity to immerse in its world prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Source
The film additionally presents a fairly intriguing reason for the source of the contagious zombification. Instead of a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While we do learn a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the movie had spent a little more time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a deadly elixir that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited background, the effect this affliction produces on people proves utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear quite realistic, and are practically guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few examples of questionable choices (as in any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like a deer in headlights while danger nears.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, this proved a welcome authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they agree via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been building over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—feel authentic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments where these individuals do show gratitude for each other feel much more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message regarding relatives or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up scares. Yet these are effective scares, and because the film gives each character sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable
