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For the most part, I'm over undead films. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre seems mostly depleted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, the platform's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations turning out quite enjoyable.

Excellent Rhythm and Personal Growth

One of the film's strongest strengths is its excellent rhythm. It begins with a striking opening sequence where a calm family gathering is violently disrupted by a vehicle plows right into the guest area. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking stranger stumbles out and begins assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is immediately followed by a flashback, allowing us to observe the family before the tragedy occurred.

Unlike many undead movies, The Elixir truly allows viewers sufficient time to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the carnage begins. There's Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—a clearly awkward dynamic. This has predictably led to a rift between the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who enjoys playing video games with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have recently been unfaithful to her. The family head is Nes' father, the owner of a well-known natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and he appears focused on just two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely tense.

Engaged in the Conflict

I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I almost overlooked I was watching a scary movie—something that could seem like a drawback, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of its runtime depicting viewers who each relative is, and how they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities enabled the audience to connect to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat for this style that often presents characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine shock when things eventually deteriorate.

Reminiscent of Parasite

The opening sequences from the gathering and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale that masquerades as a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy before taking an abrupt turn toward shocking ground. These early scenes don't focus too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient opportunity to settle into the setting prior to everything gets upended.

Original Infection Origin

The film additionally presents a quite intriguing reason for the source of the contagious zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the source of this contagious disease originates in a recent sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. Although some background is provided a bit about its origins, I wish the movie devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Despite the lack of context, the impact this affliction has on people is utterly disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead are quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This represents a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also very realistic, and they're practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.

Resourceful Personalities

Even better compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, we see a few instances of dubious decision-making (like any typical undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like a deer in headlights as death approaches.

Realistic Familial Strike

The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning to the undead, 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!" cliché often seen in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still holding onto bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they decide over the phone to regroup at a nearby location. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments when these characters do show gratitude toward one another seem much more genuine.

Stereotypical Ending

Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting any deep message about family or society, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up frights. But they're successful frights, and because the movie gives each character enough room to grow and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and entertaining