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For the most part, I'm over zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category seems mostly depleted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably entertaining.

Superb Rhythm and Character Growth

One of this movie's strongest strengths lies in the superb rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene where a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted when a van plows into the guest area. Out of the van, a very zombie-like stranger emerges proceeding attacking the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to see this household prior to the disaster struck.

Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually gives the audience sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable situation. This has understandably led to a rift among Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and who enjoys gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. The family patriarch is Nes' father, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he appears focused on just two things: his business and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is incredibly strained.

Engaged in the Conflict

I became so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked this was a scary movie—which might sound like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a significant portion of the film to showing us the identity of every family member is, and how they add to the overall turmoil. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled me to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre that often presents individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to consume, so it's a real surprise once events eventually deteriorate.

Evocative of Parasite

The opening sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring slightly dark comedy before taking an abrupt shift toward shocking ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered too heavily on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to immerse in the setting prior to it gets turned upside down.

Original Zombification Source

The film also offers a fairly intriguing reason regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type of bioweapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a new batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film devoted a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this condition has on people is absolutely repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's undead prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a bold choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.

Capable Personalities

Even better than the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Of course, we see some examples of dubious choices (like any any good undead film), however generally, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument they find instead of standing still like prey in headlights while danger approaches.

Realistic Familial Strike

The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict when people start turning to the undead, which was a pleasantly realistic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still holding onto resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they agree over the phone to regroup at a close location. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—seem realistic and relatable because the film doesn't try to push the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters express appreciation toward one another seem much more sincere.

Predictable Ending

Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound message about family or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're effective frights, and since the movie allows every personality enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result is an engaging and enjoyable