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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 proved gripping, this category seems mostly exhausted at this point. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. But, Netflix's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations turning out remarkably entertaining.

Superb Pacing and Personal Development

Among this movie's strongest assets is its superb rhythm. It kicks off with a memorable opening sequence where a peaceful family gathering is violently disrupted when a vehicle crashes into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking stranger stumbles out and begins assaulting the partygoers. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a look back, giving viewers to observe the family prior to the tragedy struck.

Unlike numerous zombie films, The Elixir actually allows the audience enough opportunity to get to know the primary characters prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—a clearly uncomfortable dynamic. Naturally, this has understandably caused a rift between the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and he enjoys gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on Nes. The family head is her dad, who runs a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two things: his work and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely tense.

Engaged in the Drama

I found myself so invested in the family's dynamics along with their interpersonal drama that I almost forgot I was watching a scary movie—something that could sound like a drawback, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every relative is, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled the audience to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre that often presents characters just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a real surprise when things finally go wrong.

Evocative of Parasite

The initial sequences from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a story that masquerades as a Korean drama featuring slightly dark humor before making an abrupt turn into "holy shit" territory. These early scenes aren't centered as much on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives enough time to settle into its world before everything gets upended.

Unique Infection Origin

This movie also offers a fairly intriguing reason for the source of the spreading zombification. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or a type of biological weapon, the source for this infectious condition originates in a recent batch of Wani Waras natural medicines created by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent additional time explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal elixir that appears to contain a highly contagious virus. Despite the limited context, the impact this condition produces on humans is utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a bold decision, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also quite convincing, and are practically certain to trigger one's trypophobia.

Capable Personalities

Even better than the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, we see a few instances of dubious decision-making (as in typical undead film), but for the most part, Nes and her relatives are resourceful and sharp. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it on the skull with the nearest heavy object is available instead of standing still like a deer caught in lights while danger approaches.

Believable Family Strike

The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals begin transforming into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic films. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally clear she remains clinging to bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they decide over the phone to meet up at a nearby location. However, once Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been building for years. Nes is not perfect, and her family—flawed as it is—seem realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the notion that a near-death experience instantly cures familial strife. This makes those instances when these characters express appreciation toward one another seem much more sincere.

Stereotypical Ending

Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending is admittedly somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep insight about family or community, as well. Rather, it's mostly serving up frights. Yet these are effective frights, and since the movie allows every personality enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result proves an engaging and enjoyable