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Typically, I've grown tired of undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, the genre feels mostly exhausted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. But, the platform's new Indonesian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out quite entertaining.

Superb Pacing and Character Growth

One of the film's strongest strengths lies in the excellent pacing. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence in which a calm family gathering is violently interrupted by a van plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking stranger emerges and begins attacking the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe this household prior to the disaster occurred.

In contrast to numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows the audience enough opportunity to become acquainted with its main characters before the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, is now wed to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable situation. This has predictably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he loves playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. The family patriarch consists of Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy company called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on only two aspects: his business and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is incredibly strained.

Engaged in the Conflict

I became so invested with this family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly overlooked this was a scary movie—something that could seem like a negative, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film depicting us who each relative is, and how they add to the general turmoil. This focus on clashing personalities allowed me to connect to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—a rare feat in a genre which frequently presents individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its cast as flat, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a genuine surprise when things finally deteriorate.

Evocative of Parasite

The opening scenes of the party and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a Korean drama with somewhat morbid comedy before making a sudden turn into shocking territory. These introductory moments aren't centered too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still gives sufficient opportunity to settle into its world prior to it gets upended.

Original Zombification Source

The film additionally presents a quite interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the cause of this contagious disease stems from a new batch from Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. Although we do learn a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted a little more time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to producing a deadly elixir that appears to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this condition produces on humans proves absolutely disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a bold choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics also appear quite convincing, and they're practically guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.

Capable Personalities

More impressive than the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some examples of questionable decision-making (like any any good zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her family are inventive and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available instead of freezing like prey in headlights while danger nears.

Believable Familial Strike

The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, which was a pleasantly authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for everything! trope frequently used in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still holding onto resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they decide over the phone to regroup at a close location. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—seem authentic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to promote the notion that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes those instances where these individuals express appreciation for each other feel much more sincere.

Stereotypical Ending

In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the ending is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound message about family or society, either. Instead, it's primarily delivering frights. But they're effective scares, and because the film gives each character sufficient space to grow and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the result proves a captivating and enjoyable