‘Another Round’: Exploring Mayhem and Madness Inside The Oscar-Winning Movie

The majority of the global population would prefer to erase all memories of the tumultuous year 2020. During that time, life seemed suspended as people involuntarily isolated themselves, disconnected from their usual reality. Despite the closure of traditional theatres, the film industry continued to function, albeit with reduced output, focusing largely on streaming and video-on-demand releases.

The Academy Awards for 2020 and early 2021 reflected this unusual period, honouring a select few films, including the winner of Best International Feature Film, ‘Another Round’. Directed by Thomas Vinterberg, the Danish film is a dark comedy that delves into the highs and lows of alcoholism.

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Released online in December 2020, ‘Another Round’ follows a group of high school teachers in Copenhagen who embark on an experiment involving daily alcohol consumption to test whether it enhances their personal and professional lives. 

Led by Martin (Mads Mikkelsen), the teachers initially establish rules to ensure the experiment remains controlled and beneficial. However, as they delve deeper into the intoxication’s effects, their lives begin to unravel, revealing the destructive nature of their experiment.

Thomas Vinterberg, known for his role in co-founding the Dogme 95 movement with Lars von Trier, brings a minimalist approach to ‘Another Round’. This movement aimed to strip away cinematic artifice, focusing on raw performances and naturalistic storytelling.

Similarly, ‘Another Round’ explores the complexities of midlife crises and the search for meaning through the lens of alcohol-induced experimentation. Martin’s journey, portrayed compellingly by Mads Mikkelsen, oscillates between liberation and despair as he navigates the highs and lows of intoxication.

Vinterberg’s direction skillfully balances the film’s thematic depth with poignant character portrayals, particularly Martin’s struggle with his newfound persona under the influence. The narrative unfolds with both humour and heartbreak, culminating in a poignant yet unpredictable conclusion that challenges conventional views on alcoholism and personal growth.

Despite its sobering subject matter, ‘Another Round’ resonates with audiences for its bold exploration of human frailty and the pursuit of vitality amidst personal stagnation. Vinterberg’s direction and Mikkelsen’s performance elevate the film beyond its premise, offering a thought-provoking reflection on the nature of addiction and the complexities of the human spirit.

– Farheen Ali