For the most part, I've grown tired of zombie movies. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre seems largely depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. But, the platform's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Character Growth
Among this movie's greatest assets is its superb rhythm. It begins using a striking opening sequence in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly interrupted by a van plows into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is then followed by a look back, giving viewers to see the family before the tragedy occurred.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir truly allows viewers sufficient time to get to know the primary characters prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—a clearly awkward situation. This has understandably caused a rift between the two women. Then there's 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. The family head consists of Nes' father, the owner of a popular natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and he seems to care about only two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I became so engrossed with this household's issues and their personal conflicts to the point I nearly overlooked this was a scary movie—which might seem like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film depicting viewers who each relative represents, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting personalities allowed the audience to relate to the personalities enough to care about their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre that often presents characters only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine surprise once events eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and various family interactions in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades as a Korean drama with slightly dark humor prior to making a sudden turn into "holy shit" ground. These introductory scenes don't focus as much on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to immerse in the setting before it gets upended.
Unique Zombification Source
This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this infectious condition originates in a new sample from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While we do learn something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film had spent additional time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a deadly elixir that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the limited background, the impact this affliction produces on humans proves utterly repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's undead are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI are also very convincing, and they're almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better than the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of questionable decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives are inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick an undead in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like a deer caught in lights as death nears.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord when people begin transforming into zombies, which was 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 frequently used in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they decide over the phone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—seem authentic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes those instances when these characters express gratitude for each other feel much more sincere.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound message regarding relatives or society, either. Instead, it's primarily delivering scares. Yet these are effective frights, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable
