Typically, I'm over zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category feels mostly exhausted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. However, the platform's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Growth
One of the film's strongest strengths is its superb rhythm. It begins with a memorable opening sequence in which a calm family party is violently interrupted by a vehicle plows into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like stranger stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is then followed by a flashback, allowing us to observe this household prior to the disaster struck.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir truly gives viewers enough opportunity to get to know its main personalities before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—a clearly awkward dynamic. This has understandably led to a falling out between the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he enjoys gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. This household head consists of Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on just two aspects: his business and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves extremely strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics and their personal conflicts to the point I almost overlooked this was a scary movie—which might sound like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of the film depicting us who each family member is, plus the ways they add to the general turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits allowed me to relate with the characters enough to care about their outcome—an uncommon feat for this style that often introduces individuals only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to devour, so it's a real surprise once events finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring slightly dark humor prior to taking an abrupt turn toward shocking ground. These early moments aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides sufficient opportunity to immerse in the setting before it gets upended.
Original Infection Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the cause for this contagious disease stems from a new batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film devoted a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to creating a lethal elixir which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the lack of background, the effect this condition has on people proves absolutely disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a bold choice, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear quite realistic, and they're almost certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
More impressive than the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of dubious choices (as in any good undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and sharp. They also aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with the nearest heavy object they find instead of freezing like prey in headlights as death nears.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, this proved a pleasantly realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they decide over the phone to meet up at a nearby location. But when Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to push the idea that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This causes the moments where these individuals express gratitude toward one another seem far more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep insight regarding relatives or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. Yet these are effective frights, and since the movie gives each character sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable
