120 BPM (2017)

120 BPM: Directed by Robin Campillo. With Nahuel Pérez Biscayart, Arnaud Valois, Adèle Haenel, Antoine Reinartz. Members of the advocacy group ACT UP Paris demand action by the government and pharmaceutical companies to combat the AIDS epidemic in the early 1990s.

“An intoxicating celebration of life and a sobering examination of midlife crisis that illuminates the inebriating delights u0026amp; euphoric pleasures of alcohol influence with heart u0026amp; humour without ever shying from the havoc it can cause when consumed in excess, Another Round (Druk) blends the elements of comedy, drama u0026amp; tragedy into a vibrant, effervescent u0026amp; invigorating mix, and is brilliantly spearheaded by a stellar showcase from the ever-reliable Mads Mikkelsen.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eCo-written u0026amp; directed by Thomas Vinterberg, the film reunites him with Mikkelsen after their memorable stint with The Hunt and the result is another instant classic. Vinterberg takes a naturalistic u0026amp; humanistic approach to bring his story to life and offers a fascinating take on the role of alcohol in Danish culture (or any culture for that matter). The plot concerns four friends who test out an alcohol experiment to enliven their banal professional u0026amp; personal lives, and it is compelling throughout.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eBut none of it would be as gripping if the bonding between the characters wasnu0026#39;t convincing enough and their individual arcs werenu0026#39;t fleshed out. Everyone plays a valuable role in the story yet the one who makes the experience truly worthwhile u0026amp; rewarding is Mads Mikkelsen whose performance here ranks amongst his finest. We strongly relate to his character, are fully invested in his journey, and the magic he conjures in the last segment is destined to leave an indelible impression on the viewers, leaving them all high u0026amp; in a state of pure bliss.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eOverall, Another Round is beautifully anchored by Vinterbergu0026#39;s sensible direction u0026amp; Mikkelsenu0026#39;s masterful rendition, and is one of the most engrossing, arresting u0026amp; life-affirming films of the year. Equal parts funny, touching u0026amp; heartbreaking, this Danish dramedy has enough vigour u0026amp; potency to leave most viewers enraptured with its infectious spell u0026amp; fleeting vibe, and the dazzling quality of the last scene not only serves as a fitting end to a joyful ride but also affirms the filmu0026#39;s position as one of the strongest entries of 2020. Truly worth your time u0026amp; money, Another Round comes highly recommended.”