Typically, I've grown tired of undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, this category seems largely depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. But, the platform's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations and proved quite enjoyable.
Excellent Pacing and Character Development
One of the film's strongest assets lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off using a striking initial scene where a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted when a van crashes right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very zombie-like individual stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This intense scene is immediately followed by a look back, giving viewers to observe this household before the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir actually allows the audience enough time to become acquainted with its main personalities prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose former close friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has predictably led to a rift between the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured but a bit inept socially, and he enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. The family head consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known natural medicine company named Wani Waras, and who seems to care about only two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so invested with this household's issues along with their personal conflicts to the point I almost forgot this was a horror film—which might sound like a negative, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of its runtime to showing us who each relative is, plus the ways they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled me to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style that often presents characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to devour, thus it's a genuine surprise when things finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a Korean drama with somewhat morbid comedy before taking a sudden turn into "holy shit" territory. These early scenes aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient opportunity to immerse in the setting prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Origin
This movie additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the cause for this infectious condition originates in a new sample from Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. Although some background is provided a bit about its origins, I wish the film devoted a little more focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the limited background, the effect this condition produces on people is utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are fast, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a bold choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear very realistic, and are practically certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of questionable choices (like any typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike an undead in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with the nearest heavy object they find instead of freezing like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning to the undead, this proved a pleasantly realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide via telephone to meet up at a close location. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been building for years. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments where these individuals express appreciation for each other seem much more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep message regarding relatives or community, as well. Instead, it's mostly delivering frights. But they're successful frights, and since the movie gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves a captivating and entertaining
