Typically, I've grown tired of zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, this category feels largely exhausted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for months. But, the platform's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out quite enjoyable.
Superb Rhythm and Character Development
One of this movie's greatest strengths is its superb rhythm. It kicks off with a memorable initial scene in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly disrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking individual emerges and begins attacking the attendees. This intense scene is immediately followed by a look back, allowing us to observe this household before the tragedy struck.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough opportunity to become acquainted with its main personalities before the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—a clearly awkward situation. Naturally, this has predictably caused a rift between the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who loves playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. The family head consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on only two aspects: his business and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves incredibly strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so invested in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot this was a scary movie—which might sound like a drawback, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of its runtime to showing us who each family member is, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits allowed me to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment for this style that often presents individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, disposable victims for an army of zombies to consume, so it's a genuine surprise once events eventually 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 like a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy before taking a sudden turn toward "holy shit" ground. These early moments aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient opportunity to settle into its world prior to it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a quite interesting explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a recent sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the film had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion which seems to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the lack of background, the impact this affliction produces on people is absolutely disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's undead are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a daring choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very realistic, and are practically certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
Even better than the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are some instances of dubious choices (as in any good zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with whatever heavy object they find instead of freezing like prey in headlights as death approaches.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict when people start turning into zombies, which was a welcome realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for everything! trope often seen in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still clinging to resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide over the phone to meet up at a nearby spot. 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 building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel realistic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This makes the moments when these characters do show gratitude toward one another feel far more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound insight regarding relatives or community, as well. Instead, it's mostly delivering scares. Yet these are successful frights, and since the film gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
