For the most part, I've grown tired of zombie movies. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category feels largely depleted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. But, the platform's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Pacing and Character Development
One of this movie's strongest strengths lies in the excellent rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable opening sequence where a calm family party is violently disrupted when a van crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like individual emerges proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense scene is immediately followed by a look back, allowing us to see this household prior to the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient time to get to know its main characters before the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a ex best friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has understandably led to a rift between Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and who enjoys gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on Nes. This household patriarch is her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and he appears to care about just two aspects: his business and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so engrossed in the family's dynamics and their personal conflicts that I nearly overlooked this was a horror film—something that could seem like a negative, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime to showing us the identity of every family member is, plus the ways they add to the general turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits allowed the audience to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre that often presents individuals only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of the undead to devour, thus it's a genuine shock once events finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking a sudden turn toward shocking ground. These early scenes aren't centered too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still provides sufficient time to immerse in its world prior to it gets upended.
Original Infection Source
The film also offers a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Instead of a unintended lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source for this contagious disease stems from a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. Although some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the movie had spent additional focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion which seems to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this condition has on humans is utterly disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring decision, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear quite convincing, and are practically guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive compared to the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are a few examples of dubious choices (as in any good undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives are inventive and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord when people begin transforming into zombies, which was a welcome authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains clinging to resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they decide over the phone to meet up at a close location. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals express appreciation toward one another seem much more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep message about family or community, either. Instead, it's mostly serving up scares. Yet these are effective frights, and since the film gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
