For the most part, I've had my fill of zombie movies. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre feels largely exhausted 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 my expectations and proved remarkably entertaining.
Impressive Pacing and Personal Growth
One of the film's strongest assets is its superb pacing. It begins with a memorable opening sequence in which a peaceful family party is violently interrupted by a vehicle crashes into the guest area. Out of the van, a very zombie-like stranger stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe this household before the disaster occurred.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient opportunity to get to know its main personalities prior to the carnage begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a ex best friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has understandably led to a falling out between the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and who loves gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch is Nes' father, who runs a well-known natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and he seems to care about just two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so invested with this family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly overlooked this was a scary movie—which might seem like a drawback, but in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film depicting viewers the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they contribute to the general turmoil. This focus on clashing traits allowed me to relate to the personalities enough to care about their fate—a rare feat for this style that often introduces individuals only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for an army of the undead to consume, so it's a real surprise when things finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and various household exchanges in fact evoke the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking a sudden turn toward "holy shit" ground. These early moments don't focus too heavily on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides sufficient time to immerse in the setting prior to it gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Source
The film additionally presents a quite intriguing reason for the source of the spreading zombification. Instead of a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition originates in a new sample of Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. Although we do learn a bit about its origins, I wish the film devoted a little more time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir that appears to contain an extremely infectious virus. Despite the limited context, the effect this affliction has on people proves absolutely repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also very realistic, and they're practically certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some instances of questionable choices (like any any good undead film), however generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like a deer in headlights as death approaches.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a pleasantly realistic 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 often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they decide via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. But when Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been building for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This makes the moments when these characters express gratitude toward one another seem far more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight about family or community, either. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're successful frights, and because the movie allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is an engaging and enjoyable
