Typically, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category feels mostly depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. But, the platform's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Growth
One of this movie's strongest strengths is its superb rhythm. It kicks off with a striking opening sequence in which a calm family gathering is violently interrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This intense moment is then followed by a flashback, giving viewers to see the family before the tragedy occurred.
Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough time to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex best friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has predictably led to a falling out between Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and he enjoys playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. The family patriarch is Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and who seems to care about only two things: his work and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves extremely tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so invested in the household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot this was a scary movie—which might seem like a negative, but in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a significant portion of the film depicting us the identity of every family member represents, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled the audience to connect with the characters enough to care about their fate—a rare accomplishment for this style that often introduces individuals only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to devour, thus it's a real shock when things eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and various family interactions in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama with somewhat morbid humor prior to taking a sudden turn toward "holy shit" ground. These early moments don't focus too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough opportunity to immerse in the setting before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Origin
This movie also offers a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this contagious disease originates in a recent sample of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although some background is provided a bit about how it started, I wish the movie had spent a little more time explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to creating a lethal elixir which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of context, the impact this affliction produces on people is absolutely repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's undead are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a bold choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also very realistic, and they're almost guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some examples of questionable choices (as in any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to kick an undead in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a pleasantly authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for everything! cliché frequently used in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains clinging to bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they decide via telephone to meet up at a close location. But when Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to push the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes the moments when these characters do show appreciation for each other feel far more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep message about family or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up scares. Yet these are successful scares, and since the film allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and enjoyable
