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For the most part, I've grown tired of zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre feels mostly depleted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for months. However, Netflix's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out quite enjoyable.

Superb Pacing and Personal Development

Among this movie's greatest assets is its excellent rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable opening sequence in which a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted when a vehicle plows right into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely zombie-like stranger stumbles out and begins attacking the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to see this household before the tragedy occurred.

Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters before the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose former best friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—an obviously awkward situation. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured but socially awkward, and he loves playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. The family head is Nes' father, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and he appears to care about just two things: his business and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is extremely strained.

Invested in the Conflict

I became so invested in the family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts to the point I nearly overlooked I was watching a scary movie—which might sound like a drawback, but in the end worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of the film to showing us the identity of every family member is, plus the ways they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on conflicting personalities allowed the audience to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon accomplishment for this style that often introduces individuals only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a real surprise once events finally deteriorate.

Reminiscent of Parasite

The opening sequences of the party and various family interactions actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking an abrupt turn into shocking ground. These early scenes aren't centered too heavily on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives enough time to immerse in the setting before it gets turned upside down.

Unique Infection Origin

This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Instead of an accidental lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the cause for this infectious condition stems from a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. Although we do learn something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the movie had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the lack of background, the impact this affliction has on people proves absolutely repulsive, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This represents a bold choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear quite realistic, and are almost guaranteed to provoke one's trypophobia.

Resourceful Characters

Even better than the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see some examples of dubious decision-making (as in any good undead film), but generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with the nearest heavy object they find rather than standing still like prey caught in lights while danger nears.

Believable Family Discord

The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a welcome authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for everything! trope often seen in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes loves her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they agree over the phone to meet up at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—feel authentic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters express gratitude toward one another seem much more genuine.

Predictable Ending

In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up any deep message regarding relatives or society, either. Rather, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're effective scares, and because the film gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and entertaining