Netflix's Indonesian horror film "The Elixir" has taken the top spot on the platform's worldwide rankings for non-English language titles, raking in over 11 million viewers in its first week of release. The zombie thriller, directed by Kimo Stamboel, has resonated with audiences globally, topping five markets and ranking among the top 10 most-watched films in 75 territories across Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas.
Stamboel's film tells the story of a family business dealing in traditional herbal remedies in a village outside Yogyakarta. When the patriarch's quest for immortality goes awry, it unleashes both domestic turmoil and a deadly outbreak that becomes a zombie apocalypse. The movie's unique blend of Indonesian culture and creatures has drawn praise from critics and audiences alike, who appreciate its authentic take on zombie horror.
The film's success is attributed to its culturally specific interpretation of the genre, incorporating elements such as Jamu, Javanese villages, and family dynamics. This approach has allowed "The Elixir" to transcend cultural boundaries, resonating with audiences worldwide.
"It was always my goal to create a zombie film that truly feels Indonesian," Stamboel explained in an interview. "I wanted to explore the core story of our culture, not just through setting or language, but through its very essence." The director's vision has been well-received by fans and critics, who praise the movie for its authentic representation of Indonesian culture.
The cast, which includes Mikha Tambayong, Eva Celia, and Donny Damara, among others, has also received accolades for their performances. For Celia, who plays Karina in the film, it's been a meaningful experience to bring an Indonesian story to global audiences and see how warmly they've responded.
With its success, "The Elixir" is proof that local stories can have a significant impact on a global scale. The movie's universal themes of family, ambition, and loss are undeniable, making it more than just a zombie film – it's a commentary on humanity itself.
Stamboel's film tells the story of a family business dealing in traditional herbal remedies in a village outside Yogyakarta. When the patriarch's quest for immortality goes awry, it unleashes both domestic turmoil and a deadly outbreak that becomes a zombie apocalypse. The movie's unique blend of Indonesian culture and creatures has drawn praise from critics and audiences alike, who appreciate its authentic take on zombie horror.
The film's success is attributed to its culturally specific interpretation of the genre, incorporating elements such as Jamu, Javanese villages, and family dynamics. This approach has allowed "The Elixir" to transcend cultural boundaries, resonating with audiences worldwide.
"It was always my goal to create a zombie film that truly feels Indonesian," Stamboel explained in an interview. "I wanted to explore the core story of our culture, not just through setting or language, but through its very essence." The director's vision has been well-received by fans and critics, who praise the movie for its authentic representation of Indonesian culture.
The cast, which includes Mikha Tambayong, Eva Celia, and Donny Damara, among others, has also received accolades for their performances. For Celia, who plays Karina in the film, it's been a meaningful experience to bring an Indonesian story to global audiences and see how warmly they've responded.
With its success, "The Elixir" is proof that local stories can have a significant impact on a global scale. The movie's universal themes of family, ambition, and loss are undeniable, making it more than just a zombie film – it's a commentary on humanity itself.