Another Round” (2020)
“Another Round” (2020) (Druk) is a Danish film directed by Thomas Vinterberg, known for its exploration of the effects of alcohol on life and relationships. The film stars Mads Mikkelsen, Thomas Bo Larsen, Magnus Millang, and Lars Ranthe. The story centers around four high school teachers—Martin (Mads Mikkelsen), Nikolaj (Magnus Millang), Peter (Thomas Bo Larsen), and Tommy (Lars Ranthe)—who are disillusioned with their mundane lives.
During a dinner party, they come across a theory proposed by Norwegian psychiatrist Finn Skårderud, which suggests that maintaining a constant level of alcohol in the bloodstream can improve one’s quality of life and mental clarity. Inspired by the theory, the four friends decide to test it themselves, embarking on a social experiment where they consume alcohol daily to see if it makes them more fulfilled, confident, and successful. As they indulge in this experiment, their personal and professional lives begin to change in unexpected ways.
The film delves into themes of midlife crisis, friendship, and the search for meaning, combining moments of humor and poignancy. It examines how alcohol can both liberate and disrupt, and it raises questions about the pursuit of happiness and the impact of societal norms. Another Round received critical acclaim for its insightful script, strong performances, particularly by Mads Mikkelsen, and its thought-provoking examination of alcohol’s role in society.
The film won several awards, including the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film. In summary, Another Round (2020) is a compelling drama that explores the consequences of alcohol consumption on personal and professional lives. Its blend of humor and drama, coupled with a strong performance by Mads Mikkelsen, makes it a thought-provoking and memorable film.