Generally speaking, I'm over undead films. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre feels mostly depleted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for months. However, the platform's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated and proved quite enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Personal Development
Among this movie's strongest strengths is its excellent rhythm. It begins with a striking opening sequence in which a peaceful family party gets suddenly disrupted when a van plows into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual emerges proceeding assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is immediately followed by a look back, allowing us to observe the family before the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir actually allows the audience enough opportunity to become acquainted with its main characters prior to the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a ex best friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—a clearly awkward situation. This has understandably led to a rift among the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who enjoys playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on Nes. The family head consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on just two things: his work and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so invested in the household's issues along with their personal conflicts to the point I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a negative, but in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of its runtime depicting us who each relative is, plus the ways they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed the audience to relate to the personalities enough to care about their fate—a rare accomplishment in a genre which frequently introduces individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a genuine shock when things eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a Korean drama with slightly dark humor prior to taking an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" ground. These early moments aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to settle into its world before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
The film also offers a quite intriguing reason regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the source for this contagious disease stems from a new sample of Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the movie had spent a little more focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion that appears to contain an extremely infectious virus. Despite the limited context, the effect this condition produces on humans is utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also quite realistic, and they're almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better compared to the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see some instances of dubious decision-making (as in typical undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument they find instead of freezing like prey in headlights as death approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for everything! trope frequently used in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still clinging to bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they decide over the phone to meet up at a close location. But when Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals express gratitude for each other feel far more sincere.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound message regarding relatives or community, either. Rather, it's primarily serving up scares. Yet these are effective frights, and because the movie allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
