Anders Thomas Jensen is reuniting the Riders of Justice team for his upcoming dark comedy, tentatively titled Back to Reality. The film will star Mads Mikkelsen and Nikolaj Lie Kaas, along with a talented ensemble cast of Danish actors including Lars Brygmann, Sofie Grabol, Bodil Jorgensen, Soren Malling, and Nicolas Bro. Shooting for the movie commenced in Funen, Denmark, on August 19.
Back to Reality is a unique blend of drama and crime comedy, revolving around a bank robbery and the complex relationship between two brothers, Anker and Manfred, portrayed by Mikkelsen and Kaas respectively. Anker, recently released from prison, seeks to retrieve the stolen money from his heist. However, the only person who knows the whereabouts of the loot is his brother Manfred, who is grappling with personal dissociation stemming from childhood trauma and his protective alter ego, unaware of the money's location. The narrative unfolds as the brothers return to their childhood home, embarking on a journey of both physical and psychological excavation.
Anders Thomas Jensen, known for his directorial work on acclaimed films such as Men And Chicken (2015), Adam's Apples (2005), and The Green Butchers (2003), is also a prolific screenwriter with credits on notable projects like In a Better World and The Promised Land. Riders of Justice, a previous collaboration of Jensen and Mikkelsen, was a commercial success in Denmark and garnered international distribution in over 50 territories.
Back to Reality has already generated significant interest, with pre-sales secured in key markets including German-speaking Europe and Benelux. Lionsgate has acquired the rights for an English-language adaptation, with Jensen and Nikolaj Arcel set to pen the script. Zentropa is producing the film, while TrustNordisk is handling global sales. The anticipated release date for Back to Reality is slated for Autumn 2025 in Denmark.
