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Generally speaking, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. While favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category seems largely depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. However, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.

Impressive Rhythm and Character Development

Among the film's greatest strengths lies in the excellent rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene where a calm family party is violently disrupted when a van crashes right into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like individual stumbles out and begins assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, allowing us to observe this household before the disaster occurred.

Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir actually allows the audience enough time to get to know the primary characters prior to the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. This has predictably caused a rift between Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he loves playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and he seems focused on just two things: his work and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves extremely strained.

Engaged in the Drama

I became so engrossed with this household's issues and their interpersonal drama that I almost forgot I was watching a scary movie—something that could sound like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of its runtime depicting us the identity of every family member represents, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on clashing personalities allowed me to relate to the personalities sufficiently to care about their outcome—a rare feat in a genre which frequently introduces characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to consume, so it's a real shock once events eventually deteriorate.

Reminiscent of Parasite

The opening sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades like a Korean drama featuring slightly dark humor before taking a sudden shift into "holy shit" ground. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives sufficient time to settle into its world before it gets turned upside down.

Original Infection Origin

This movie also offers a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition originates in a recent sample from Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. While we do learn something regarding how it started, I wish the film devoted a little more focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a lethal elixir which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this condition produces on humans proves utterly repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a bold choice, yet 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

Even better compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of dubious decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her relatives are inventive and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with whatever heavy object is available instead of standing still like prey caught in lights while danger nears.

Realistic Familial Discord

The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion 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 frequently used in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close spot. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves family tensions. This causes those instances where these individuals express appreciation toward one another seem far more genuine.

Predictable Conclusion

In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep message regarding relatives or society, as well. Instead, it's mostly serving up scares. Yet these are successful scares, and since the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable