For the most part, I've grown tired of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, this category feels largely depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. However, the platform's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations turning out quite entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Development
One of the film's greatest assets is its superb pacing. It begins using a striking initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense moment is then followed by a flashback, allowing us to observe this household prior to the tragedy occurred.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually allows the audience enough time to become acquainted with its main characters before the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose former best friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a rift among Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he loves playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. The family patriarch consists of Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on only two aspects: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely strained.
Invested in the Conflict
I became so invested in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama that I nearly forgot this was a horror film—something that could seem like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of the film depicting us the identity of every family member is, and how they add to the general turmoil. This focus on clashing personalities allowed the audience to relate with the characters sufficiently to care about their outcome—a rare accomplishment for this style which frequently presents individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to devour, so it's a genuine surprise once events finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and various family interactions actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to making an abrupt turn toward shocking territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to immerse in the setting before everything gets upended.
Unique Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a fairly intriguing reason regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Instead of an accidental lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the cause for this infectious condition originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. Although we do learn something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the movie had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a deadly elixir which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the limited background, the effect this affliction produces on humans proves utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a daring choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and they're almost certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some examples of questionable decision-making (like any typical zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate 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 prey caught in lights as death nears.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict when people begin transforming into zombies, which was a welcome realistic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still clinging to resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they agree via telephone to meet up at a close location. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the idea that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes those instances when these characters express appreciation toward one another feel much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep message regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're effective scares, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable
