Generally speaking, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, the genre seems mostly exhausted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for months. But, the platform's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated and proved remarkably entertaining.
Superb Pacing and Personal Development
Among the film's strongest assets is its superb pacing. It begins using a striking opening sequence in which a peaceful family party gets suddenly interrupted when a vehicle crashes into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking individual emerges proceeding attacking the partygoers. This intense scene is immediately followed by a flashback, allowing us to see the family prior to the disaster occurred.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir truly gives the audience enough time to become acquainted with the primary characters before the chaos begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—a clearly awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably led to a falling out between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and who enjoys gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household head is Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on just two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is extremely tense.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed with this family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot I was watching a scary movie—something that could sound like a drawback, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film to showing us the identity of every relative represents, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on conflicting traits enabled me to connect to the personalities enough to care about their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre that often introduces characters just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to devour, thus it's a real shock when things finally go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking a sudden shift toward shocking territory. These early moments aren't centered too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives enough opportunity to settle into its world before it gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Origin
The film additionally presents a quite interesting explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Rather than a unintended lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the cause for this contagious disease originates in a new sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. Although some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the film had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the lack of context, the effect this affliction has on people proves utterly repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a daring decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear quite realistic, and they're almost guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see some examples of dubious choices (like any typical zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with whatever heavy object they find rather than freezing like prey in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning to the undead, this proved a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains holding onto bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. But when Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel authentic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to promote the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters express appreciation toward one another feel far more sincere.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep message about family or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're successful scares, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
