Typically, I've had my fill of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, this category feels largely exhausted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. However, the platform's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations turning out remarkably entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Growth
Among this movie's greatest strengths is its excellent rhythm. It begins using a memorable initial scene in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly interrupted when a van crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like stranger stumbles out and begins assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is immediately succeeded by a look back, allowing us to see the family before the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly gives viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has understandably caused a rift between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and he loves gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. This household head is Nes' father, who runs a popular natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on just two things: his work and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so invested in the family's dynamics and their personal conflicts to the point I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a negative, but in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of the film depicting viewers the identity of every relative represents, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing personalities allowed the audience to connect to the personalities sufficiently to care about their fate—an uncommon feat for this style that often introduces characters just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to devour, thus it's a real shock when things finally go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and various household exchanges in fact evoke the film Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama with slightly dark comedy prior to making a sudden shift toward shocking territory. These early moments don't focus too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough opportunity to immerse in the setting before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Origin
This movie additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the spreading zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the cause for this infectious condition stems from a new sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. Although some background is provided something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a lethal elixir which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this affliction produces on people proves utterly repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a bold decision, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also very convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
More impressive than the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see a few instances of questionable decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and sharp. They also don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with whatever heavy object is available rather than standing still like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict once individuals start turning to the undead, this proved a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they decide over the phone to regroup at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to push the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals do show gratitude for each other feel far more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound message about family or society, either. Rather, it's primarily serving up scares. Yet these are successful scares, and because the film gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable
