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For the most part, I've grown tired of zombie movies. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, this category feels largely exhausted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for months. But, the platform's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated turning out quite entertaining.

Excellent Pacing and Personal Growth

Among the film's greatest assets is its superb rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene in which a peaceful family gathering gets suddenly interrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking individual stumbles out proceeding attacking the attendees. This intense scene is then followed by a look back, giving viewers to see this household before the disaster struck.

Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir truly allows viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with the primary personalities before the chaos ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has understandably led to a rift between the two women. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted but a bit inept socially, and who enjoys gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household head consists of Nes' father, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and who appears to care about only two aspects: his work and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is extremely tense.

Engaged in the Conflict

I became so engrossed in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—something that could seem like a negative, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a significant amount of its runtime to showing viewers who each relative is, plus the ways they contribute to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting traits allowed the audience to relate to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat for this style that often presents individuals just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to devour, thus it's a real surprise when things finally deteriorate.

Reminiscent of Parasite

The opening sequences from the gathering and various family interactions in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a K-Drama with slightly dark comedy prior to making an abrupt turn into "holy shit" ground. These early moments don't focus as much on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides enough time to immerse in the setting prior to everything gets upended.

Original Infection Origin

This movie also offers a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the cause for this infectious condition originates in a new batch of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film devoted additional time on how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion that appears to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited background, the effect this affliction produces on humans proves utterly disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's undead prove fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a bold choice, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear quite convincing, and they're practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.

Capable Personalities

Even better compared to the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are a few examples of questionable choices (as in typical undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives are inventive and sharp. They also don't hesitate to strike an undead in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument they find instead of standing still like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.

Believable Family Strike

The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes of familial discord when people begin transforming into zombies, this proved a welcome authentic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still holding onto bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they agree over the phone to meet up at a nearby location. However, once Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes the moments where these individuals express appreciation toward one another feel far more genuine.

Stereotypical Ending

In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message about family or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily delivering scares. Yet these are effective frights, and since the movie gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome is a captivating and enjoyable