Another Round (Druk, 2020) is a Danish drama-comedy film directed by Thomas Vinterberg, starring Mads Mikkelsen, Thomas Bo Larsen, Magnus Millang, and Lars Ranthe. The film explores themes of midlife crisis, friendship, and the impact of alcohol on human behavior.
The story follows four high school teachers—Martin (Mads Mikkelsen), Tommy (Thomas Bo Larsen), Nikolaj (Magnus Millang), and Peter (Lars Ranthe)—who are all facing various personal and professional struggles. Martin, in particular, is stuck in a monotonous routine, feeling disconnected from his wife, Anika (Maria Bonnevie), and uninspired in his job.
One evening, during Nikolaj’s 40th birthday dinner, the group discusses a theory proposed by Norwegian psychiatrist Finn Skårderud, which suggests that humans are born with a blood alcohol deficiency of 0.05%. Inspired by this idea, they decide to conduct an experiment: they will maintain a constant alcohol level of 0.05% during their daily lives to test whether it improves their confidence, creativity, and overall happiness.
At first, the results seem promising. Martin becomes more engaged in teaching, inspiring students with unorthodox methods, and reconnects with his family. Peter helps his students overcome anxiety, and Nikolaj finds renewed enthusiasm for his job and marriage. Tommy, a lonely soccer coach, also finds joy in his work with the kids.
Encouraged by their success, the group increases their alcohol intake beyond the initial limit, leading to reckless behavior. They begin drinking excessively, even during work hours. Martin’s personal life momentarily improves, but tensions arise between him and his wife soon. Tommy, who already struggles with alcoholism, spirals further, drinking heavily even outside the experiment.
As their experiment reaches a breaking point, Martin’s marriage collapses, and Tommy loses control completely. In a heartbreaking turn, Tommy is found dead in an apparent accident while sailing drunk. His tragic fate forces the remaining three friends to confront the reality of their actions.
In the film’s emotional final scene, Martin and his colleagues attend their students’ graduation celebrations. Despite the sadness, Martin momentarily embraces the chaos, joining in a wild dance while drunk to Scarlet Pleasure’s song “What a Life.” As he dances freely, the film leaves his fate ambiguous, symbolizing both liberation and uncertainty about his future.
“Another Round” is a profoundly human film, balancing humor and tragedy while exploring the social and psychological effects of alcohol.
The Other Cinema 