Forget Hollywood! A new zombie flick from Indonesia is taking Netflix by storm. 'The Elixir,' directed by Kimo Stamboel, one half of the filmmaking duo The Mo Brothers, is currently the most popular movie on the streaming platform globally, even surpassing Danny Boyle's highly anticipated '28 Years Later'.
What's 'The Elixir' About?
Set in rural Indonesia, 'The Elixir' tells the story of a pharmaceutical company, Wani Waras, on the verge of releasing a revolutionary elixir. CEO Sadimin, eager to test the product, takes a swig and experiences miraculous de-aging effects. However, things quickly go south when the elixir triggers a zombie outbreak, forcing Sadimin's family to fight for survival.
Gore, Action, and Social Commentary
Reviewers are praising 'The Elixir' for its impressive gore, action sequences, and subtle social commentary on big pharma. While some find the characters' decision-making frustrating, the film's overall presentation and fast-paced thrills are keeping viewers glued to their screens. The film is a blood-soaked, adrenaline-pumping ride that doesn't shy away from gruesome visuals.
According to FlixPatrol, 'The Elixir' claimed the top spot on Netflix on October 24th and 25th, pushing Keira Knightley's 'The Woman in Cabin 10' to second place. This unexpected success highlights the growing popularity of international films on streaming services and the audience's appetite for fresh, unique horror content.
Will Kimo Stamboel Be the Next Big Thing?
With 'The Elixir' dominating Netflix, it's likely that director Kimo Stamboel will soon be receiving offers from Hollywood. His unique blend of horror and action, combined with a knack for crafting visually stunning and thrilling narratives, makes him a filmmaker to watch. Keep an eye out for more from this talented Indonesian director!