Generally speaking, I'm over undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category feels mostly depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for months. However, the platform's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out remarkably entertaining.
Superb Pacing and Character Growth
One of the film's strongest strengths lies in the superb pacing. It begins with a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted when a vehicle plows right into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking stranger stumbles out and begins assaulting the attendees. This dramatic moment is then followed by a flashback, allowing us to observe the family before the disaster struck.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir truly allows the audience sufficient time to get to know its main characters before the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a married mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable situation. This has predictably led to a falling out between Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and he enjoys playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household head consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and who seems to care about just two aspects: his work and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed with this family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly overlooked this was a horror film—which might sound like a negative, but in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every family member represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits enabled the audience to relate with the characters sufficiently to care about their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre which frequently introduces individuals just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to devour, thus it's a genuine shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and various family interactions actually evoke the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a Korean drama with somewhat morbid humor prior to taking a sudden turn into shocking ground. These introductory moments don't focus too heavily on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough time to settle into the setting prior to everything gets upended.
Unique Infection Origin
The film additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Instead of a unintended lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source for this contagious disease originates in a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a deadly potion which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the limited background, the impact this affliction produces on people proves absolutely repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's undead prove fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold choice, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also very realistic, and are almost certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of questionable choices (like any typical undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and sharp. They also don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument they find rather than standing still like a deer in headlights while danger nears.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they decide via telephone to regroup at a close spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to push the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This causes the moments when these characters do show gratitude toward one another feel much more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep message about family or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're effective scares, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
