For the most part, I'm over zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category seems mostly depleted nowadays. Yet 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, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out quite entertaining.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Growth
One of the film's strongest assets lies in the excellent rhythm. It begins with a memorable opening sequence in which a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly interrupted by a van plows into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking stranger emerges proceeding attacking the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to see the family prior to the disaster struck.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir truly allows viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary personalities prior to the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother whose former close friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has predictably caused a rift among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured but a bit inept socially, and who loves gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. This household head is her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he appears to care about only two things: his work and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves incredibly strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot this was a horror film—which might sound like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a significant portion of the film depicting viewers the identity of every family member represents, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled me to relate with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style that often presents individuals only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to devour, so it's a real surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and various family interactions in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy before making an abrupt turn toward shocking territory. These introductory moments don't focus as much on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives enough time to settle into its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the contagious transformation. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the source for this contagious disease stems from a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. While we do learn something regarding how it started, I wish the film devoted a little more time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a lethal potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the lack of context, the impact this affliction has on people is utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a bold choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also quite convincing, and are almost guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
More impressive than the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are a few examples of dubious choices (like any typical zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick an undead in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with the nearest heavy object is available instead of freezing like prey in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for everything! cliché frequently used in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they decide over the phone to regroup at a close location. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—seem authentic and relatable because the film doesn't try to push the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This causes the moments when these characters do show gratitude toward one another feel far more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight regarding relatives or society, as well. Instead, it's primarily delivering frights. Yet these are effective scares, and since the film gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
