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Generally speaking, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, this category seems largely depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for months. However, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out quite enjoyable.

Superb Rhythm and Personal Development

One of this movie's greatest assets is its excellent rhythm. It begins using a striking opening sequence where a calm family gathering is violently disrupted by a van plows right into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking stranger emerges proceeding attacking the attendees. This intense scene is then succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to see the family before the tragedy struck.

In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir truly gives the audience enough time to get to know the primary characters prior to the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother with a ex close friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably led to a falling out between Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured but socially awkward, and who loves playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. This household head is Nes' father, who runs a popular natural medicine company named Wani Waras, and he seems focused on just two aspects: his work and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is extremely strained.

Invested in the Conflict

I became so invested with this household's issues along with their personal conflicts that I almost forgot this was a scary movie—which might sound like a drawback, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of its runtime depicting us the identity of every family member is, plus the ways they add to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled the audience to relate with the characters sufficiently to care about their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre which frequently introduces characters just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to consume, thus it's a genuine shock when things finally go wrong.

Reminiscent of Parasite

The opening sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama with somewhat morbid comedy before taking an abrupt shift toward shocking ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered as much on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough time to settle into the setting prior to it gets upended.

Original Zombification Origin

This movie also offers a quite interesting reason regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the source for this contagious disease stems from a new batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. Although we do learn a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the movie devoted additional time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the impact this affliction has on people proves absolutely disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's undead are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a bold decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.

Capable Personalities

Even better compared to the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of questionable decision-making (like any any good undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument they find instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger nears.

Realistic Familial Discord

The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a welcome realistic subversion from that "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 loves 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 over the phone to regroup at a close spot. But when Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable since the movie avoids attempting to push the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments when these characters do show appreciation toward one another seem much more genuine.

Stereotypical Conclusion

In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep message about family or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're successful frights, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to develop and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the outcome proves a captivating and entertaining