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Typically, I've had my fill of undead films. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre feels largely depleted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. But, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out quite entertaining.

Excellent Rhythm and Character Development

Among this movie's greatest assets lies in the superb rhythm. It kicks off using a striking initial scene in which a peaceful family party gets suddenly disrupted by a van crashes right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger emerges and begins assaulting the attendees. This intense moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, allowing us to observe this household before the disaster occurred.

Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir truly allows viewers enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former best friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. This has predictably led to a rift among Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured but a bit inept socially, and who loves gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on Nes. The family patriarch is her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who seems to care about only two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely strained.

Engaged in the Drama

I became so invested in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot this was a horror film—something that could sound like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a significant portion of the film depicting viewers who each relative represents, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed me to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style that often presents characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine shock once events eventually deteriorate.

Evocative of Parasite

The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges in fact evoke the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a Korean drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to making a sudden turn toward shocking territory. These introductory scenes don't focus too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides enough opportunity to settle into the setting prior to everything gets upended.

Original Zombification Origin

This movie also offers a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition stems from a new batch from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. While we do learn a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a lethal elixir which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this condition has on people is absolutely repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear very convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.

Resourceful Characters

More impressive than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see a few examples of dubious choices (as in any good undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her family are inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick an undead in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument they find instead of freezing like prey in headlights as death nears.

Realistic Family Strike

The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord when people start turning into zombies, which was a welcome authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for everything! cliché frequently used in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they decide over the phone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to promote the notion that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters express appreciation toward one another feel far more genuine.

Predictable Conclusion

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 society, as well. Instead, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're effective frights, and since the movie gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable