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Generally speaking, I've had my fill of apocalyptic horror. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved gripping, this category seems largely depleted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. But, Netflix's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert what I anticipated and proved remarkably enjoyable.

Excellent Pacing and Character Development

One of this movie's greatest strengths lies in the excellent pacing. It begins with a striking opening sequence where a calm family gathering gets suddenly interrupted when a vehicle plows right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger emerges proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to see this household before the tragedy occurred.

In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough opportunity to get to know the primary characters before the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. This has understandably led to a rift among the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet a bit inept socially, and who enjoys playing video games alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently been unfaithful to Nes. This household head consists of her dad, the owner of a popular natural medicine business called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on only two aspects: his work and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion proves extremely tense.

Invested in the Drama

I became so engrossed with this family's dynamics and their personal conflicts that I nearly overlooked this was a horror film—which might sound like a negative, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of its runtime depicting us who each family member represents, plus the ways they add to the general turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting traits allowed the audience to relate to the personalities enough to care about their fate—a rare accomplishment in a genre that often introduces individuals just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to devour, so it's a real surprise once events finally deteriorate.

Reminiscent of Parasite

The opening sequences from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring slightly dark humor prior to taking a sudden turn toward shocking territory. These early moments don't focus too heavily on comedy compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir still gives enough time to immerse in its world prior to everything gets turned upside down.

Original Infection Origin

This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing reason regarding the origin of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the cause for this contagious disease stems from a new sample 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 a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to creating a lethal potion that appears to contain an extremely infectious virus. Despite the limited context, the impact this condition produces on people proves utterly disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a daring choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also quite convincing, and are practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.

Capable Personalities

Even better than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, there are a few instances of dubious decision-making (as in typical undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or beat it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument they find rather than standing still like a deer in headlights as death nears.

Realistic Familial Strike

The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming to the undead, which was a pleasantly realistic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in end-of-world movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they agree over the phone to regroup at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes a massive level of irritation toward Bang which has obviously been brewing over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—seem authentic and understandable because the film doesn't try to promote the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances where these individuals express appreciation for each other feel much more sincere.

Predictable Conclusion

Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly a bit formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound insight regarding relatives or society, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up frights. Yet these are effective scares, and since the film gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the result proves a captivating and enjoyable