Typically, I'm over undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre feels largely depleted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for months. However, the platform's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out quite entertaining.
Impressive Rhythm and Personal Growth
One of the film's greatest strengths lies in the excellent pacing. It kicks off with a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family party gets suddenly interrupted when a vehicle plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding attacking the attendees. This intense scene is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to see this household before the tragedy struck.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly allows viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with its main characters before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a married mother with a ex best friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—an obviously awkward situation. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out between the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and he enjoys playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. This household patriarch consists of her dad, who runs a well-known natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and he seems focused on just two aspects: his work and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves extremely tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed with this family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts that I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a negative, but in the end worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of its runtime depicting us who each relative is, and how they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This focus on clashing personalities allowed me to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare feat for this style which frequently presents individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to devour, so it's a real shock when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and various family interactions actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring slightly dark humor prior to taking a sudden shift toward "holy shit" territory. These early moments aren't centered too heavily on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to immerse in the setting prior to everything gets upended.
Original Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the cause for this infectious condition stems from a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. Although some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film devoted additional time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of context, the effect this affliction has on people proves absolutely repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a bold choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear quite convincing, and are almost certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
Even better compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some examples of dubious decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her family are inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available rather than freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict when people start turning to the undead, which was a pleasantly realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for everything! cliché frequently used in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still clinging to bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they agree over the phone to meet up at a close spot. But when Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and understandable because the film doesn't try to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This causes the moments where these individuals do show gratitude toward one another seem much more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight about family or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. Yet these are effective frights, and because the movie gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is an engaging and enjoyable
