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For the most part, I've had my fill of undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category seems largely depleted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. But, the platform's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations turning out quite enjoyable.

Superb Rhythm and Character Growth

Among this movie's greatest strengths lies in the excellent pacing. It begins using a striking opening sequence in which a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted by a van plows right into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to observe this household before the disaster struck.

In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers sufficient time to get to know its main characters prior to the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a married mother whose ex best friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. Naturally, this has predictably caused a rift between Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and who loves gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to her. This household head consists of her dad, who runs a well-known natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and he seems to care about just two aspects: his business and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is extremely tense.

Engaged in the Conflict

I became so invested in the household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot I was watching a scary movie—something that could sound like a drawback, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film depicting viewers the identity of every relative represents, plus the ways they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing traits allowed me to relate to the personalities enough to care about their outcome—a rare accomplishment in a genre which frequently presents characters just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of zombies to consume, thus it's a genuine surprise once events eventually go wrong.

Evocative of Parasite

The initial scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a Korean drama with somewhat morbid comedy prior to making a sudden turn into "holy shit" ground. These early scenes don't focus as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives enough opportunity to immerse in the setting before it gets upended.

Original Zombification Origin

The film also offers a quite intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Instead of a unintended lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition stems from a recent sample from Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. While we do learn something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film had spent additional time on how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a lethal potion which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this affliction has on humans proves absolutely repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's undead are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring choice, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also very convincing, and are almost guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.

Capable Characters

More impressive compared to the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see a few examples of dubious decision-making (as in typical zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to kick an undead in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument they find instead of standing still like a deer in headlights while danger nears.

Believable Family Discord

The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, this proved a pleasantly authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes loves her family and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they decide over the phone to regroup at a close location. But when Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been building over time. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem realistic and understandable because the film doesn't try to push the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This causes those instances where these individuals express gratitude for each other seem far more sincere.

Predictable Conclusion

In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound message about family or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. Yet these are effective scares, and since the movie allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable