Applause (2009 film)

Applause is a 2009 Danish drama film directed by Martin Pieter Zandvliet. The film stars Paprika Steen as Thea Barfoed, a successful stage actress battling severe alcoholism. The film portrays Thea's struggle to regain custody of her two young sons following a stint in rehab. It delves into the complexities of addiction, motherhood, and the challenges of rebuilding a life shattered by substance abuse.

The narrative focuses on Thea's intense efforts to maintain sobriety and demonstrate her capacity as a responsible parent. It highlights the emotional turmoil she faces as she confronts her personal demons and attempts to mend fractured relationships with her ex-husband and children. The film is known for its raw and unflinching portrayal of addiction and its impact on individuals and families. Paprika Steen's performance was widely praised, and she received several awards for her role, including the Best Actress award at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival. The film itself garnered critical acclaim for its realistic depiction of addiction and its powerful storytelling.