For the most part, I've grown tired of zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre seems largely exhausted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. But, the platform's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out quite enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Personal Development
One of this movie's greatest assets lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off using a memorable opening sequence in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly interrupted by a van crashes into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like stranger stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This intense moment is immediately succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to observe this household prior to the disaster occurred.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly gives the audience enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary personalities prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a ex best friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—a clearly awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably led to a rift between Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and who loves gaming alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household patriarch consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and he seems to care about just two things: his work and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is extremely tense.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so invested in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot this was a horror film—which might seem like a drawback, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every relative represents, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on conflicting traits enabled me to relate with the characters enough to care about their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style which frequently introduces individuals just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to devour, thus it's a real shock once events eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a Korean drama featuring slightly dark humor before taking a sudden shift into shocking territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still provides sufficient opportunity to settle into its world before it gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition stems from a recent sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. While we do learn a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the movie had spent a little more time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the lack of context, the effect this affliction has on people proves utterly repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also quite convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
More impressive than the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are some examples of questionable decision-making (like any typical zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument they find instead of freezing like prey in headlights as death approaches.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord when people begin transforming to the undead, this proved a pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes loves her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they decide via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—feel authentic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This makes the moments when these characters express appreciation for each other feel much more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep message about family or society, either. Rather, it's mostly delivering frights. Yet these are successful scares, and since the movie gives each character enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
