Typically, I've grown tired of undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre feels largely exhausted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, the platform's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations turning out quite enjoyable.
Impressive Pacing and Personal Growth
Among the film's greatest strengths lies in the excellent rhythm. It begins with a memorable initial scene in which a calm family gathering is violently disrupted by a van crashes right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding attacking the partygoers. This dramatic scene is immediately succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to observe the family prior to the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, 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 with a former close friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably led to a rift between the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured yet socially awkward, and he loves playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on Nes. This household head consists of her dad, the owner of a popular natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on just two things: his business and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so engrossed with this family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama that I almost overlooked this was a scary movie—something that could seem like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of the film depicting viewers who each family member represents, plus the ways they add to the overall turmoil. This focus on conflicting traits allowed the audience to connect to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently presents individuals just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine surprise when things eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and various family interactions in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring slightly dark humor before taking an abrupt shift toward shocking ground. These early moments don't focus as much on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to immerse in the setting before it gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Source
This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease originates in a new sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. While we do learn a bit about its origins, I wish the film devoted additional focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of context, the effect this affliction has on people is utterly repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear quite convincing, and are almost guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see some instances of dubious choices (like any typical zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available rather than freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a pleasantly realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby location. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been building for years. Nes is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to push the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals express gratitude toward one another seem much more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message about family or community, either. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. 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 result proves a captivating and enjoyable
