Another Round – ★★★★✩

Certificate – 12
Directed By – Thomas Vinterberg
Starring – Mads Mikkelsen, Thomas Bo Larsen, Lars Ranthe, Magnus Millang, Maria Bonnevie.
Running Time – 117 Minutes (1 Hour 57 Minutes)

It’s not every day a foreign film breaks into the wider film audience, but when it does, it’s a testament to the movie’s quality. Luckily we’ve seen it happen back-to-back in as many years; first it was Parasite becoming a critical darling winning multiple top Oscars and now with Danish film Another Round.

The biggest buzz came from last year’s festival circuit and it went on to win an Oscar, but it’s until now I was able to see this film, and I’m glad I did because it’s an incredible film.

The film focuses on four weary middle-aged teachers, led by Mikkelsen, as they embark on an experiment to see if being in a state of minimal but constant intoxication can improve their outlook on life. Early results indicate positively. However, after the initial high, things become out of control leading to dire consequences.

Druk or Another Round showcases why Mads Mikkelsen is one of the greatest actors of this generation.

The journey and range of emotions he takes us through is breathtaking. From someone who used to be the life of the party whose light has gone and just going through life depressed. Then when he starts the experiment, the man is reborn getting his students to engage with history (the same is happening with his friends) and finding happiness again.

At this point, it is a fun comedy, but the tone changes during one night and it becomes a tragic drama as life begins to change for everyone as the experiment becomes painful.

Once again, led by Mikkelsen, it’s hard to watch him spiral out of control into alcoholism and there’s a lot of talk about the Danish drinking culture that could easily mirror the UK’s own.

Yet the most memorable scene, in this beautifully directed film, is at the end and possibly Mikkelsen’s greatest moment on screen and will leave both the biggest smile as a tear drops down your face.

Blu-Ray Extras

Interview with Mads Mikkelsen & Thomas Vinterberg at the Cannes Film Festival 2020

Verdict

Beautifully directed and incredibly led by Mikkelsen, Another Round is a journey of highs and lows, joys and pain of alcohol.