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Typically, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category feels largely exhausted at this point. Yet the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust in my watchlist for some time. But, the platform's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations and proved remarkably enjoyable.

Superb Rhythm and Character Growth

One of the film's greatest assets lies in the excellent pacing. It begins with a memorable initial scene where a peaceful family party is violently interrupted by a vehicle plows into the guest area. Out of the van, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out and begins attacking the attendees. This dramatic scene is immediately succeeded by a look back, allowing us to see this household prior to the disaster struck.

Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually gives viewers enough time to get to know the primary characters before the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother with a former close friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—an obviously awkward situation. This has predictably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted but socially awkward, and he loves gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on her. This household patriarch is Nes' father, who runs a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and who appears to care about only two things: his business and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves incredibly tense.

Engaged in the Conflict

I became so engrossed with this household's issues along with their personal conflicts that I almost overlooked I was watching a scary movie—which might sound like a negative, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a significant portion of its runtime to showing viewers who each family member represents, and how they add to the overall dysfunction. This focus on conflicting personalities enabled the audience to connect with the characters sufficiently to care about their fate—an uncommon accomplishment for this style that often introduces individuals only to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, disposable victims for a horde of the undead to devour, thus it's a genuine surprise when things eventually deteriorate.

Evocative of Parasite

The opening sequences of the party and the multiple family interactions in fact bring to mind the film Parasite, a story that masquerades as a K-Drama with slightly dark comedy before making an abrupt shift into shocking territory. These early moments aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough time to settle into its world prior to it gets turned upside down.

Unique Infection Source

The film additionally presents a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the contagious zombification. Instead of an accidental laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the cause of this infectious condition originates in a recent sample from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by her dad. Although we do learn something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the film had spent a little more time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to creating a deadly potion which seems to include a highly contagious pathogen. Regardless of the limited background, the impact this affliction produces on people is absolutely disgusting, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a daring choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear very convincing, and they're practically certain to trigger one's trypophobia.

Resourceful Characters

Even better than the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are a few examples of questionable choices (as in typical zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with whatever blunt instrument they find rather than standing still like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.

Believable Familial Discord

The Elixir doesn't drop its focus of familial discord when people start turning into zombies, this proved a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for everything! trope often seen in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they agree via telephone to regroup at a nearby location. But when Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation on her brother which has obviously been building over time. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel authentic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to push the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments where these individuals express gratitude for each other feel much more genuine.

Stereotypical Ending

In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up any deep message about family or community, either. Instead, it's mostly delivering scares. Yet these are successful frights, and since the movie gives each character enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the result is a captivating and enjoyable