The Elixir (Indonesian: Abadi Nan Jaya) is a 2025 Indonesian zombie film directed, produced, and co-written by Kimo Stamboel.[1][2] The film stars Mikha Tambayong, Eva Celia, Donny Damara, and Marthino Lio. It was released by Netflix on 23 October 2025
The film also has a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the contagious zombification itself. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the source of this contagious disease comes from a new sample of Wari Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. Though we do learn a bit about its origins, I wish the film had spent a bit more time on how Wani Waras went from a trusted purveyor of holistic medicine to cranking out a deadly elixir that appears to contain a highly contagious virus.
Lack of context aside, the effect this affliction has on humans is absolutely repulsive, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a bold choice, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also quite convincing, and all but guaranteed to trigger one's trypophobia.
Even better than the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Sure, there are some moments of questionable decision-making (like in any good zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with the nearest heavy object instead of freezing like a deer in headlights as death approaches.
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