For the most part, I've grown tired of undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre seems largely depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. However, the platform's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations turning out quite entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Growth
One of this movie's greatest assets lies in the superb pacing. It begins with a memorable opening sequence where a calm family party gets suddenly interrupted by a vehicle plows into the guest area. Out of the van, a very zombie-like stranger stumbles out and begins assaulting the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to see the family before the disaster struck.
Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir truly gives viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with its main personalities prior to the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a former close friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—an obviously awkward situation. This has predictably led to a rift among the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he loves playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. This household head consists of Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on only two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so engrossed in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost overlooked I was watching a scary movie—which might seem like a drawback, but in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a significant portion of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every relative represents, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting personalities allowed the audience to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—a rare feat for this style that often introduces characters just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of the undead to consume, so it's a real surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and the multiple household exchanges in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring slightly dark comedy before making a sudden turn into shocking territory. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides sufficient time to settle into its world before it gets upended.
Unique Zombification Source
This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the cause for this contagious disease originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. While we do learn a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the film devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a deadly potion which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the limited context, the impact this affliction produces on humans is absolutely repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a bold decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear quite realistic, and are almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
More impressive than the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are a few examples of dubious choices (like any typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to strike an undead in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like a deer caught in lights as death nears.
Realistic Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord once individuals begin transforming into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for everything! trope frequently used in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains clinging to bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—seem realistic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to promote the notion that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters do show gratitude for each other seem far more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound insight regarding relatives or community, either. Rather, it's mostly delivering frights. Yet these are effective scares, and since the film gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
