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For the most part, I'm over zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre feels largely depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for some time. However, Netflix's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated and proved quite entertaining.

Impressive Rhythm and Character Development

Among this movie's strongest strengths is its excellent pacing. It kicks off using a striking initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted by a vehicle crashes into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual emerges and begins assaulting the attendees. This intense moment is then succeeded by a look back, allowing us to see this household prior to the tragedy struck.

In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually gives the audience sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary characters before the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. This has predictably led to a falling out between Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and he enjoys playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. The family patriarch is Nes' father, who runs a popular natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on only two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is extremely tense.

Engaged in the Drama

I found myself so invested with this household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost overlooked this was a scary movie—which might seem like a negative, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film to showing viewers who each family member represents, and how they contribute to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed me to relate to the personalities enough to care about their outcome—a rare feat in a genre that often presents characters only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of zombies to consume, so it's a genuine surprise once events finally deteriorate.

Reminiscent of Parasite

The initial scenes of the party and the multiple family interactions in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid humor before taking a sudden turn toward shocking ground. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives enough time to settle into the setting before everything gets turned upside down.

Original Zombification Source

The film additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a new sample of Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. While some background is provided a bit about how it started, it would have been better if the film devoted additional focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the impact this condition has on people proves absolutely repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear quite realistic, and are almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.

Capable Characters

More impressive than the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Of course, we see a few instances of questionable decision-making (like any any good zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and sharp. They also don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with whatever heavy object is available instead of freezing like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.

Believable Family Strike

The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby location. But when Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been building over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances where these individuals do show gratitude for each other feel far more genuine.

Stereotypical Conclusion

In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending is admittedly somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound message regarding relatives or community, either. Rather, it's mostly delivering frights. Yet these are successful frights, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and entertaining