Typically, I've grown tired of zombie movies. While favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, this category feels largely depleted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. But, the platform's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated and proved remarkably entertaining.
Excellent Pacing and Personal Development
One of the film's strongest assets is its excellent rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family party gets suddenly disrupted when a vehicle crashes into the seating section. Out of the van, a very zombie-like individual emerges proceeding attacking the partygoers. This dramatic scene is immediately followed by a flashback, allowing us to observe this household prior to the tragedy occurred.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly gives viewers enough opportunity to become acquainted with its main personalities before the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—a clearly awkward situation. Naturally, this has predictably caused a rift among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and he loves playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on her. This household head consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two things: his work and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so invested with this family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked this was a scary movie—which might seem like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a significant amount of the film to showing viewers who each relative represents, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting personalities allowed me to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—a rare feat in a genre that often presents characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a real surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a K-Drama with slightly dark humor prior to taking a sudden shift toward shocking ground. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives enough time to settle into its world prior to it gets upended.
Unique Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the source for this contagious disease originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. Although we do learn a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent additional focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir which seems to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the limited context, the effect this condition produces on humans proves utterly repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's undead are fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear quite convincing, and they're almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
Even better compared to the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of questionable choices (as in typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her family are inventive and sharp. They also don't hesitate to strike an undead in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument they find instead of freezing like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a welcome authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains clinging to resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they decide over the phone to regroup at a close location. But when Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the idea that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This causes the moments when these characters do show appreciation toward one another feel far more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep insight about family or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up scares. But they're effective frights, and because the movie gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
