Generally speaking, I've grown tired of undead films. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre seems largely exhausted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for months. But, the platform's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out quite entertaining.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Development
One of this movie's greatest assets is its excellent pacing. It begins using a memorable initial scene where a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted when a van plows into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding attacking the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a look back, allowing us to see this household prior to the tragedy struck.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir truly gives viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters before the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother whose former close friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably led to a rift between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and he loves gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to her. The family head consists of Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on only two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so engrossed with this household's issues along with their personal conflicts that I almost overlooked this was a scary movie—which might seem like a drawback, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film depicting viewers the identity of every family member is, and how they add to the general turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed me to relate with the characters enough to care about their outcome—an uncommon feat for this style that often introduces individuals only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to devour, so it's a genuine shock once events finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The initial sequences from the gathering and various household exchanges in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a K-Drama with slightly dark comedy before taking a sudden shift toward "holy shit" ground. These early scenes aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to immerse in the setting before everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
The film additionally presents a fairly interesting reason for the source of the contagious zombification. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the cause for this contagious disease stems from a new sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. Although some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the film had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion that appears to include an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the limited background, the effect this condition produces on humans is utterly disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a bold decision, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see some instances of questionable decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick an undead in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with the nearest heavy object they find instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.
Realistic Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a welcome realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still clinging to resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a close location. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to push the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals express gratitude toward one another feel much more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep insight about family or society, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up scares. Yet these are successful frights, and because the movie allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable
