Typically, I've had my fill of undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category feels mostly depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. But, the platform's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Pacing and Character Growth
Among the film's greatest assets lies in the excellent pacing. It kicks off using a memorable opening sequence in which a calm family party gets suddenly interrupted by a van plows into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe the family before the disaster occurred.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough opportunity to get to know its main personalities prior to the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a ex best friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—a clearly awkward dynamic. This has understandably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured but socially awkward, and he enjoys gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. The family patriarch consists of Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who seems to care about only two aspects: his work and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed with this household's issues along with their personal conflicts that I almost overlooked I was watching a scary movie—which might seem like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of its runtime to showing viewers who each family member represents, plus the ways they add to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting traits enabled the audience to connect with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style that often introduces individuals only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a real shock once events eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a Korean drama featuring slightly dark humor before making an abrupt shift into shocking territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides enough opportunity to settle into the setting before everything gets upended.
Original Infection Origin
The film also offers a quite intriguing reason regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. While we do learn something regarding how it started, I wish the film devoted a little more focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to creating a lethal elixir which seems to contain a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this condition produces on people proves absolutely disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a bold choice, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and they're almost certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
More impressive compared to the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of questionable decision-making (as in typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument they find rather than standing still like prey caught in lights while danger nears.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict when people begin transforming to the undead, which was a pleasantly realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for everything! trope frequently used in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they agree via telephone to meet up at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to push the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This causes those instances where these individuals express appreciation for each other feel far more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep message about family or community, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up frights. Yet these are effective scares, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable
