Another Round (Druk), a 2020 Danish film directed by Thomas Vinterberg, tells the story of Martin (Mads Mikkelsen), a middle-aged high school teacher who’s become disillusioned with his life and is going through a difficult time. Feeling uninspired in his work and disconnected from his wife and children, he finds himself increasingly drawn to alcohol. The film explores themes of midlife crisis, friendship, and the complex relationship between alcohol and creativity. Here’s a closer look at the movie’s key moments and their impact.
A Gathering of Friends and a Daring Proposition
A group of middle-aged teachers in Copenhagen –Martin, Tommy, Peter, and Nikolaj– feel their careers have become dull and their students uninspired. Martin, in particular, faces criticism from students and parents who feel his teaching methods are ineffective. To escape this rut, the friends gather for Nikolaj’s birthday dinner.
In an attempt to lighten the mood, one of the friends proposes a curious experiment. He cites a theory suggesting that maintaining a constant blood alcohol level of 0.5% throughout the day can enhance creativity and performance. Initially skeptical, the other men, including Martin, are intrigued by the idea. This idea sparks a significant change in their lives.
The Experiment Begins: A Heightened Sense of Being
Emboldened by the theory, the friends decide to embark on this experiment. They begin surreptitiously consuming small amounts of alcohol throughout the workday. Martin, in particular, experiences a noticeable shift. He feels more engaged with his students, his lessons become more dynamic, and he even reconnects with his wife on a deeper level.
The initial results seem positive. The friends’ lives appear to improve. Martin feels a renewed sense of purpose, his colleagues rediscover their passion for teaching, and their friendship strengthens.
Blurring the Lines: The Experiment Escalates
However, as the film progresses, it becomes clear that the experiment is not sustainable. The friends struggle to maintain the exact 0.5% level, and their alcohol consumption gradually increases.
Martin, initially hesitant to push the boundaries, gets swept up in the camaraderie. He starts drinking more heavily, not just during the day but also at home. His wife becomes increasingly concerned, noticing his slurred speech and irresponsible behavior.
The film masterfully portrays the slippery slope of addiction. What began as a controlled experiment quickly spirals out of control. The friends’ professional and personal lives begin to crumble.
Consequences and Broken Relationships
The experiment ends in tragedy. Friendships are strained, and Martin’s marriage crumbles. While everyone quits daytime drinking except for the struggling Tommy, he tragically takes his own life by sailing out drunk and drowning at sea. After his funeral, the remaining friends share a drink. Despite the occasion, they share sparkling wine, which is perhaps a sign they’ll return to moderate drinking.
A glimmer of hope appears when Martin receives a message from his wife expressing that she misses him. As the newly graduated students celebrate nearby, the three men join them, indulging in drinks at the harbor. Martin, a former dancer, finally overcomes his reluctance and throws himself into a joyful dance, ending up in a dramatic leap into the sea.
The film’s ending leaves the audience to interpret whether this final act is a continuation of the experiment, a reckless decision fueled by alcohol, or a symbolic gesture of letting go.
Hope Amidst the Wreckage
The film doesn’t provide easy answers. The friends’ relationships are forever changed by their actions. However, it leaves the audience with a sense of cautious optimism, suggesting that rebuilding their lives is possible.
Another Round is a powerful and thought-provoking film that explores the complex relationship between alcohol and human behavior. It’s a cautionary tale about the dangers of addiction but also a story about resilience and the importance of seeking help. For more details and to see what others are saying about the movie, check out its IMDB page.
IMDB score: 7.7
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