Generally speaking, I've grown tired of zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category seems largely depleted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. However, the platform's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Personal Development
One of this movie's strongest strengths is its superb pacing. It begins with a striking opening sequence in which a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted when a van crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding attacking the attendees. This dramatic scene is then followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe this household prior to the disaster occurred.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir truly allows the audience sufficient time to get to know the primary personalities before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a former best friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable situation. This has predictably caused a rift among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who loves playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. This household patriarch is Nes' father, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and who seems to care about only two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a negative, but in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a significant portion of the film to showing us who each relative is, and how they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled me to relate with the characters sufficiently to care about their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style that often presents individuals only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to consume, so it's a genuine surprise once events eventually go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial scenes from the gathering and various family interactions in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades like a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy prior to taking a sudden shift toward shocking territory. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to settle into its world before it gets turned upside down.
Original Infection Origin
This movie also offers a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a recent batch from Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. While some background is provided a bit about how it started, I wish the film had spent a little more time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion which seems to contain a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of background, the impact this affliction produces on people proves absolutely disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's undead are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a bold decision, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and they're almost certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are some examples of dubious choices (like any typical zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to strike an undead in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument they find rather than standing still like prey caught in lights as death approaches.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict when people start turning into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for everything! cliché frequently used in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide over the phone to meet up at a nearby spot. But when Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been building for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—seem realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try to promote the idea that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments when these characters express gratitude toward one another seem far more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight about family or community, either. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're successful scares, and because the film allows every personality enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
