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Generally speaking, I've had my fill of zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre seems largely depleted nowadays. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. However, the platform's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out quite entertaining.

Superb Rhythm and Personal Growth

Among the film's greatest assets is its superb pacing. It kicks off using a striking initial scene in which a calm family party is violently interrupted by a vehicle plows into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like individual stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense scene is immediately followed by a flashback, allowing us to see the family prior to the tragedy occurred.

Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly gives viewers enough time to get to know its main characters prior to the chaos begins. There's Nes, a married mother with a former close friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable situation. This has understandably led to a falling out between Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured but a bit inept socially, and he loves gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on Nes. This household head consists of her dad, the owner of a popular natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and he appears focused on only two aspects: his work and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves incredibly strained.

Engaged in the Drama

I found myself so engrossed with this household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I almost forgot this was a horror film—something that could seem like a negative, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of the film depicting viewers the identity of every relative represents, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting personalities enabled the audience to relate with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre which frequently introduces characters just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to consume, so it's a genuine shock when things finally deteriorate.

Evocative of Parasite

The opening scenes from the gathering and various household exchanges in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor before making a sudden shift toward "holy shit" ground. These early moments aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir still gives sufficient time to settle into the setting before everything gets upended.

Unique Zombification Source

The film additionally presents a quite intriguing explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Instead of a unintended laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the source for this contagious disease originates in a new sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent additional focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly elixir that appears to contain a highly contagious pathogen. Despite the lack of context, the effect this condition produces on humans is absolutely repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a bold decision, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also very realistic, and are practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.

Resourceful Personalities

More impressive compared to the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of dubious choices (like any typical undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object they find instead of freezing like prey in headlights as death nears.

Believable Family Strike

The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they decide via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building for years. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes the moments when these characters express appreciation for each other feel far more genuine.

Predictable Ending

In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound message about family or community, as well. Rather, it's primarily serving up scares. But they're effective frights, and because the movie gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable