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Typically, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre feels largely exhausted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. But, Netflix's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out remarkably entertaining.

Excellent Rhythm and Personal Development

One of this movie's greatest assets is its excellent pacing. It begins with a striking initial scene in which a calm family party is violently disrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very zombie-like stranger stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This dramatic scene is immediately succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to observe the family before the disaster struck.

Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir truly gives viewers enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary personalities prior to the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a former close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out between the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have recently cheated on her. This household patriarch is her dad, the owner of a popular natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and who appears to care about just two things: his work and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely tense.

Invested in the Conflict

I found myself so invested with this family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost overlooked I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of its runtime to showing viewers the identity of every family member represents, plus the ways they contribute to the general turmoil. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled me to connect with the characters sufficiently to care about their fate—a rare accomplishment in a genre which frequently introduces individuals only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a real surprise once events eventually go wrong.

Evocative of Parasite

The initial sequences of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring slightly dark humor before making an abrupt turn into shocking ground. These introductory moments don't focus as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives sufficient opportunity to settle into its world before everything gets upended.

Unique Infection Source

The film also offers a fairly interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the source of this contagious disease stems from a new sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. Although some background is provided a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent additional time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion that appears to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the lack of background, the impact this condition produces on people proves absolutely repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a bold decision, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite convincing, and are almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.

Capable Characters

More impressive than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few examples of questionable decision-making (as in any good zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with the nearest heavy object they find rather than standing still like a deer in headlights while danger nears.

Believable Family Strike

The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a pleasantly authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for everything! trope frequently used in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. Once the household becomes split up, they agree via telephone to regroup at a close spot. But when Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals express gratitude for each other feel far more genuine.

Stereotypical Conclusion

Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the ending must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep message regarding relatives or society, as well. Instead, it's mostly delivering frights. But they're effective frights, and because the film gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable