One for the Road

Markus Goller's *One for the Road* is a darkly comedic exploration of addiction, regret, and fleeting hope. The film follows Mark (Frederick Lau), a brash alcoholic whose reckless behavior costs him his driver's license and lands him in a rehabilitation course. There, he meets Helena (Nora Tschirner), a woman who inspires him to attempt sobriety, even as his old habits and temptations constantly pull him back.

Frederick Lau brings a raw, magnetic energy to Mark, portraying him as both infuriating and deeply human. His chemistry with Nora Tschirner, who delivers a subtle and compassionate performance, adds a layer of emotional weight to a narrative that often teeters on the edge of absurdity. Markus Goller's direction balances humor and pathos, crafting moments of genuine laughter that quickly give way to introspection.

The cinematography uses muted tones to reflect the protagonist's inner turmoil, while the soundtrack punctuates key moments with a mix of melancholic and upbeat tracks. However, the film's pacing falters at times, with certain scenes feeling repetitive and the central themes occasionally underexplored. Despite its ambition, *One for the Road* doesn't always fully escape the clichés of addiction narratives, leaving it feeling predictable in parts.

This film will resonate with those who appreciate character-driven stories that blend humor and drama. It's best suited for an intimate viewing, where its emotional beats can resonate more deeply. *One for the Road* is an imperfect but honest look at self-destruction and the struggle to change.

Rating: 6/10 - A darkly comedic tale that entertains but doesn't break new ground.

This movie is not only about the main character's fight against a serious desease, it is much more about how society deals with the thin border between enjoying alcohol or other drugs and when life gets out of control because of that. The same thin line is there between being admired for not being boring and living life to the fullest and not allowing much enjoyment - a very interesting moment depicted between Mr. Jung and his neighbor.

Alcohol surely facilitates getting into an entertaining party mode, but in a fragile and short-lived fashion that can easily turn into aggression. While the plot might not contain many surprises, it still shows nicely that alcohol cannot be the ingredient of a happy life for obvious reasons. A delicate subject, with great acting and honestly much better than expected - more serious than you might think from the cast and layout.

As with most if not all addictions, the one(s) that are affected by it, can't see it. So no pun intended here as always. And the movie kind of makes it clear from the start. They even talk and tell our main character what he likely is thinking. It does not register with him - at least not to the degree that it would help him or make him change anything.

Lau is a great actor, he really gives it his all. The story is predictable, but you hang on, because you are mesmerized by the performances - that includes the other players (Tschirner to name just one). Cliches and suspension of disbelief go hand in hand - or should go that is.

One for .. home viewing! Best watched sober ...