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Typically, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category feels largely depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for months. However, Netflix's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.

Superb Pacing and Character Growth

Among this movie's greatest assets lies in the excellent rhythm. It begins using a striking opening sequence in which a peaceful family party is violently interrupted by a van plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely zombie-like stranger stumbles out proceeding assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic moment is then succeeded by a flashback, giving viewers to observe this household before the tragedy struck.

Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough time to get to know the primary personalities prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose ex close friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable situation. This has understandably led to a falling out between Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and he enjoys playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. The family head is Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he appears to care about only two aspects: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely tense.

Invested in the Conflict

I became so engrossed in the family's dynamics and their personal conflicts that I nearly forgot I was watching a scary movie—which might sound like a drawback, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a significant amount of the film to showing viewers the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they contribute to the overall turmoil. This focus on clashing personalities allowed the audience to relate with the characters sufficiently to care about their outcome—a rare feat for this style that often introduces characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to devour, so it's a genuine surprise when things eventually deteriorate.

Evocative of Parasite

The opening scenes of the party and the multiple family interactions actually evoke the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a Korean drama with slightly dark comedy prior to making an abrupt turn into "holy shit" territory. These introductory moments don't focus as much on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives enough opportunity to immerse in its world before everything gets upended.

Unique Zombification Source

This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a new batch from Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. While we do learn a bit about its origins, I wish the film devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras went from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion which seems to contain a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the impact this condition has on humans proves utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a bold choice, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also very realistic, and are practically certain to trigger a fear of holes.

Resourceful Personalities

More impressive compared to the disgusting moments are the characters themselves. Of course, we see some examples of dubious choices (like any typical zombie movie), but generally, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with whatever heavy object is available instead of freezing like prey in headlights while danger nears.

Realistic Familial Strike

The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people start turning to the undead, this proved a pleasantly realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they agree over the phone to meet up at a nearby location. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing for years. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem realistic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to promote the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This causes those instances when these characters express gratitude for each other seem much more genuine.

Stereotypical Conclusion

In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound message regarding relatives or community, as well. Rather, it's mostly delivering scares. Yet these are successful frights, and since the film allows every personality sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable