Generally speaking, I'm over zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre feels largely exhausted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. But, the platform's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out quite entertaining.
Excellent Pacing and Personal Development
Among this movie's strongest strengths is its superb rhythm. It begins using a striking initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted when a van crashes into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like individual emerges proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a look back, allowing us to observe the family prior to the disaster struck.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir truly allows viewers enough time to get to know the primary characters prior to the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a married mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. This has understandably led to a falling out between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and he enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household head consists of her dad, the owner of a popular herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two aspects: his business and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves extremely tense.
Invested in the Drama
I became so engrossed with this family's dynamics and their personal conflicts that I nearly overlooked this was a scary movie—something that could seem like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of the film to showing viewers the identity of every family member represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits allowed me to relate with the characters sufficiently to care about their fate—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre that often presents characters just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to consume, so it's a real surprise when things eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a Korean drama with slightly dark comedy before taking an abrupt turn into shocking territory. These introductory scenes aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient opportunity to settle into its world before it gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Source
This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the contagious transformation. Instead of a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source of this contagious disease stems from a recent batch from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding its origins, I wish the film devoted a little more time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to creating a lethal elixir which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Despite the limited context, the impact this affliction has on people is utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a bold decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear quite realistic, and are practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of questionable decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike an undead in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with the nearest heavy object is available rather than freezing like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people begin transforming to the undead, this proved a welcome realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes loves her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains clinging to bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they decide via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been building for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try 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 far more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep message regarding relatives or society, as well. Instead, it's mostly delivering frights. But they're effective scares, and because the film gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result proves a captivating and entertaining
