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For the most part, I've grown tired of undead films. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category feels largely depleted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for months. But, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated and proved remarkably entertaining.

Impressive Rhythm and Character Growth

One of the film's strongest strengths lies in the excellent pacing. It begins with a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering is violently interrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the guest area. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger emerges proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense scene is immediately followed by a look back, giving viewers to observe the family prior to the disaster struck.

In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually gives viewers sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with the primary personalities prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably led to a falling out between the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured but a bit inept socially, and who loves playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. This household patriarch consists of her dad, the owner of a popular natural medicine business named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on just two aspects: his work and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is incredibly strained.

Engaged in the Drama

I found myself so invested with this family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot this was a scary movie—something that could seem like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a significant amount of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every family member is, and how they add to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing personalities allowed me to connect with the characters sufficiently to care about their outcome—a rare feat in a genre that often presents individuals only to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to consume, so it's a real shock once events eventually go wrong.

Evocative of Parasite

The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple family interactions in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale that masquerades like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to making a sudden turn toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory moments aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir still provides sufficient opportunity to settle into its world before it gets turned upside down.

Original Zombification Origin

This movie also offers a fairly interesting reason regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or a type 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 something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the movie had spent additional time on how Wani Waras went from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited background, the impact this affliction produces on humans is absolutely repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, always smiling. This is a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear very realistic, and are practically guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.

Resourceful Characters

Even better compared to the gross-out moments is the cast themselves. Of course, we see some instances of dubious choices (as in typical zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her family show themselves resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to strike an undead in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object is available instead of freezing like prey in headlights while danger approaches.

Believable Familial Strike

The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people begin transforming into zombies, this proved a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for everything! cliché often seen in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes loves her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they decide via telephone to meet up at a close location. However, once Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to promote the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments when these characters express gratitude for each other seem much more sincere.

Predictable Ending

Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound insight about family or community, as well. Instead, it's mostly delivering scares. But they're effective frights, and since the film gives each character sufficient space to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable