Thomas Vinterberg's new Danish drama, Another Round, opens in Irish cinemas today (July 2). And what a return to cinema it will be. The tragicomedy picked up a well-deserved Oscar earlier this year for Best International Film, with its daring, intoxicating concept: what if we stayed slightly tipsy all the time?

Starring Mads Mikkelsen – best known for his villainous turn in Casino Royale and his sleek revival of Hannibal Lecter in NBC's Hannibal – the film is a wonderfully compelling case study of friendships and communities.

Mikkelsen reunites with Vinterberg (who directed him in 2012's The Hunt) to play Martin – one of four teachers at various stages of a mid-life crisis. Fuelled by malaise, boredom and a night of drinking, the four decide to test the theory that having a constant 0.05% blood alcohol level can put the spark back in their jaded lives.

They embark on an experiment to stay low-level drunk throughout their workdays, and find that their social relationships initially improve, along with their work lives. Martin somewhat rekindles with his distant wife on a camping holiday, and finds the confidence to connect with his students. However, things take a turn when dependency and excess raise their head. Cue blackout drinking and debauchery, with tragic consequences. Ultimately, the film ends on an uplifting note, as a celebration of life and the bonds we make during, with an exquisite performance from Mikkelsen.

Watch the trailer below.