Typically, I've grown tired of zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category seems largely exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting in my watchlist for months. However, the platform's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations turning out remarkably entertaining.
Excellent Rhythm and Personal Growth
Among the film's greatest assets is its superb pacing. It begins using a striking opening sequence in which a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted when a vehicle plows into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This intense scene is immediately succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to observe this household prior to the disaster struck.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with its main characters prior to the chaos begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a former best friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—a clearly awkward dynamic. This has understandably caused a rift between the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and who enjoys gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. This household head is her dad, who runs a well-known natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and he appears to care about only two things: his work and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves incredibly strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so invested in the household's issues along with their personal conflicts that I almost forgot this was a scary movie—which might seem like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of the film depicting viewers the identity of every family member represents, and how they add to the general turmoil. This focus on conflicting traits allowed the audience to connect to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre which frequently presents characters just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of zombies to consume, so it's a genuine surprise when things finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to making a sudden turn toward "holy shit" ground. These early moments aren't centered too heavily on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides enough opportunity to settle into its world prior to it gets upended.
Unique Zombification Source
This movie also offers a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a new batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. While we do learn something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film had spent a little more time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion which seems to include an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the limited background, the impact this affliction has on humans proves absolutely repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear very realistic, and are almost guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Of course, we see some instances of dubious decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her family are inventive and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the face, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it over the head with whatever heavy object they find rather than freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord when people begin transforming into zombies, which was a welcome realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for everything! cliché often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes loves her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to meet up at a nearby location. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—seem realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to promote the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This makes the moments when these characters express appreciation for each other seem much more sincere.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound insight about family or community, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up frights. Yet these are successful frights, and since the movie gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result proves a captivating and entertaining
