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Typically, I've grown tired of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre seems mostly depleted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. But, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.

Excellent Rhythm and Personal Growth

One of this movie's greatest strengths is its superb rhythm. It begins using a memorable opening sequence in which a calm family gathering is violently interrupted by a vehicle plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger emerges and begins attacking the partygoers. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a flashback, allowing us to observe this household before the disaster struck.

In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough opportunity to get to know the primary personalities before the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a former best friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. Naturally, this has understandably led to a falling out between Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and he loves playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. This household patriarch consists of her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he appears to care about just two things: his business and his wife to his daughter's ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves incredibly strained.

Invested in the Drama

I found myself so invested in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot I was watching a scary movie—something that could seem like a drawback, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a significant portion of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every family member is, and how they add to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled the audience to connect to the personalities sufficiently to care about their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style that often introduces individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of zombies to consume, thus it's a genuine shock once events eventually go wrong.

Evocative of Parasite

The initial scenes of the party and the multiple family interactions in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a Korean drama with somewhat morbid humor before making a sudden turn toward shocking ground. These introductory moments don't focus too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient opportunity to immerse in the setting before everything gets turned upside down.

Original Infection Origin

This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Instead of an accidental lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the source of this infectious condition stems from a new batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. While we do learn a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the movie had spent a little more time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion that appears to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of context, the effect this condition has on people proves absolutely disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a bold decision, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also quite realistic, and they're almost certain to provoke one's trypophobia.

Capable Characters

More impressive compared to the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, we see a few examples of questionable decision-making (like any typical zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.

Realistic Familial Discord

The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict when people start turning to the undead, this proved 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 all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they agree via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to promote the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes those instances when these characters express gratitude toward one another feel far more sincere.

Stereotypical Conclusion

In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep message regarding relatives or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're effective frights, and since the movie gives each character enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable