Typically, I'm over undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category feels largely depleted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for some time. But, the platform's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Growth
Among this movie's strongest strengths lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off with a striking initial scene where a peaceful family party gets suddenly interrupted by a vehicle crashes right into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking individual emerges and begins assaulting the attendees. This intense moment is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe the family before the tragedy struck.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient opportunity to get to know its main personalities prior to the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a former close friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. This has understandably led to a falling out among the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured yet socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on Nes. The family patriarch is her dad, the owner of a well-known natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on just two aspects: his business and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama that I almost overlooked this was a horror film—which might sound like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of the film depicting viewers the identity of every family member is, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled me to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat in a genre which frequently presents characters just to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to consume, thus it's a real surprise once events eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial scenes of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades like a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy before making an abrupt shift into "holy shit" territory. These early scenes aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient opportunity to settle into the setting prior to it gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
This movie also offers a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the contagious transformation. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted a little more focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to creating a lethal potion that appears to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this affliction has on people proves absolutely disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear quite convincing, and they're almost guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few examples of questionable decision-making (as in typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and sharp. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with whatever heavy object they find instead of freezing like prey caught in lights as death nears.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, this proved a welcome authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree over the phone to meet up at a close location. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been building for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel realistic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments where these individuals do show gratitude toward one another seem much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep message about family or society, either. Rather, it's mostly serving up frights. But they're successful scares, and since the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is a captivating and enjoyable
