For the most part, I've had my fill of zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, this category feels mostly exhausted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. But, the platform's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations turning out quite entertaining.
Superb Rhythm and Personal Development
One of this movie's greatest assets is its excellent rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene in which a calm family gathering is violently disrupted by a van plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like stranger stumbles out and begins assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to see this household prior to the tragedy struck.
In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough opportunity to get to know the primary personalities before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably led to a falling out among Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured yet socially awkward, and he enjoys playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. This household head consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so invested in the household's issues and their interpersonal drama that I almost forgot this was a horror film—something that could seem like a drawback, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film to showing viewers the identity of every family member is, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on conflicting traits allowed the audience to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment for this style which frequently presents individuals only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to devour, thus it's a real surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and various household exchanges in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking an abrupt turn toward shocking territory. These early moments don't focus too heavily on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides enough time to settle into its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Origin
The film also offers a quite interesting reason for the source of the contagious zombification. Instead of a unintended lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the source of this contagious disease stems from a new sample of Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. Although some background is provided a bit about how it started, I wish the movie devoted a little more focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal elixir which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this condition has on humans proves utterly repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a bold choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear very realistic, and are practically guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
Even better compared to the gross-out scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, we see some instances of dubious choices (like any any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her family are inventive and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument is available rather than freezing like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains holding onto bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This makes the moments when these characters do show appreciation for each other feel far more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound message regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's mostly delivering scares. But they're successful scares, and because the film gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
