Mads Mikkelsen : Another Round

Mads Mikkelsen has been gracing our screens since 1996's film Pusher. The internationally acclaimed film by Drive (2011) director Nicholas Winding Refn, where he stars as a drug dealer.

The Pusher film series has since completed it's trilogy with both Pusher II (2004) and Pusher 3 (2005).

One of his most notable roles to date would be Le Chiffre in 2006's Casino Royale. Where he played a "banker" for several criminal organizations.

His showdown with James Bond across the poker table as well as his poised and silky portrayal of Le Chiffre really brought some much needed "suave" to Bond villans across the board.

Other notable performances of his include : Dr. Hannibal Lecter, in which he delivers a notably different, but controlled portrayal of the famous character. Another would be Lucas in The Hunt where he plays a teacher who is accused of committing a lewd act in front of one of his students who has a crush on him. Playing Kaecilius, the zealot who wants eternal life in Doctor Strange.

Fast forward to 2020 and he's back with his new film, Another Round. Teaming up with The Hunt (2012) director Thomas Vinterberg we are give a truly beautiful film that centers on the theory that man was born with too little alcohol in our blood. According to this theory, having alcohol in our blood opens our mind and promotes creativity, the world's problems seem smaller and we'd be able to live better, happier lives.

In this film, not only does Mads Mikkelsen deliver on of the best performances of his career but also delivers one of the most fun performances of his career. Thomas Vinterberg really brought a universal atmosphere that appeals to audiences worldwide while also showing Denmark's drinking culture in as faithful a way possible. This film, even with its relatively limited release during these pandemic times, it has garnered praise from critics and audiences alike. Taking home awards like Best Film in the European Film Awards alongside Best Director, Best Screenplay and of course Best Actor for Mads Mikkelsen.

This film doesn't "glorify" alcohol as most would imagine. The film instead centers around four teachers who all decide to try out the aforementioned theory. Its a beautiful portrayal of friendship, bonds, family and life as well as history. This is really the kind of film we needed to brighten up our days in these dark times.