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For the most part, I'm over undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems largely depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for months. However, the platform's latest Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations and proved remarkably enjoyable.

Excellent Pacing and Character Growth

Among the film's greatest strengths lies in the superb rhythm. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted by a van plows right into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking stranger emerges and begins attacking the partygoers. This intense scene is then followed by a flashback, allowing us to observe this household prior to the tragedy struck.

Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough time to become acquainted with the primary characters before the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a married mother with a former best friend, Karina, is now married to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out between the two women. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who loves gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. The family head consists of her dad, the owner of a well-known natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two aspects: his work and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves incredibly tense.

Invested in the Drama

I found myself so engrossed with this family's dynamics along with their personal conflicts to the point I almost overlooked I was watching a scary movie—something that could sound like a drawback, but in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of its runtime to showing viewers who each family member represents, and how they add to the general turmoil. This emphasis on clashing traits allowed the audience to relate to the personalities enough to care about their fate—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre that often presents individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a real shock once events eventually deteriorate.

Evocative of Parasite

The initial scenes of the party and various household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a Korean drama with slightly dark humor before making a sudden shift into shocking territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides sufficient time to immerse in the setting before it gets turned upside down.

Original Zombification Source

The film also offers a fairly interesting reason for the source of the spreading transformation. Instead of a unintended lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the cause of this infectious condition originates in a new batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. Although we do learn a bit about its origins, I wish the movie had spent a little more time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion which seems to contain a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this affliction produces on people is utterly repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a bold decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics are also quite convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.

Capable Characters

Even better than the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of questionable choices (like any typical undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and sharp. They also don't hesitate to strike an undead in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object they find instead of freezing like prey caught in lights while danger nears.

Realistic Familial Discord

The Elixir doesn't drop its themes of familial discord once individuals start turning to the undead, which was a pleasantly realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she's still clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem authentic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to push the notion that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This causes the moments where these individuals express appreciation for each other feel far more sincere.

Stereotypical Ending

Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending must be said to be a bit formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep insight about family or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering scares. Yet these are successful scares, and since the film gives each character sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is a captivating and enjoyable