For the most part, I've had my fill of undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category feels mostly exhausted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. But, the platform's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Pacing and Character Development
Among the film's greatest assets is its superb rhythm. It begins using a memorable initial scene where a peaceful family party is violently interrupted when a vehicle plows right into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like stranger stumbles out and begins attacking the partygoers. This intense moment is then succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to see this household prior to the disaster struck.
In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually allows the audience sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—a clearly awkward situation. This has understandably caused a rift between the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and he enjoys gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on Nes. This household head consists of her dad, who runs a popular natural medicine company named Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two things: his work and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves extremely tense.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot I was watching a scary movie—something that could sound like a negative, but in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of the film to showing us who each relative represents, and how they add to the general turmoil. This focus on clashing traits enabled me to relate to the personalities enough to care about their fate—an uncommon feat for this style which frequently introduces characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to consume, so it's a genuine shock when things eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama with slightly dark comedy prior to making an abrupt shift into "holy shit" territory. These early scenes aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient opportunity to settle into the setting before it gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Origin
The film also offers a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the contagious transformation. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the cause for this contagious disease originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to producing a deadly potion which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the lack of context, the impact this affliction produces on people proves utterly repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a daring choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also very realistic, and are almost guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better than the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Of course, we see some instances of dubious choices (as in typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available rather than freezing like a deer caught in lights as death nears.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord once individuals start turning to the undead, this proved a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for everything! trope frequently used in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a close location. However, once Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and relatable because the film doesn't try to promote the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals do show gratitude toward one another seem far more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound insight regarding relatives or society, either. Rather, it's mostly delivering frights. But they're successful frights, and because the movie gives each character sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable
