Naomie Ackie and Robert Pattinson take center stage in Bong Joon-ho’s Mickey 17, a film that satirizes authoritarian regimes but struggles to tell a gripping sci-fi story.
Director: Bong Joon-ho
Genre: Sci-fi, Comedy, Thriller
Run Time: 139 minutes
Release Dates: U.S. – March 7, 2025 | U.K. & Ireland – April 18, 2025
The story kicks off with a thought-provoking question: “Hey Mickey, what does it feel like to die?” This is the essence of Mickey 17, which follows a young man, Mickey, who literally dies for a living and is reborn in a new body with his memories intact. It’s a captivating concept that raises deep questions about identity and memory.
What if two versions of Mickey existed simultaneously? Would they still be the same person? These philosophical inquiries linger throughout the film, but Bong Joon-ho seems more interested in creating a narrative about a dictator aiming to populate a utopian planet with “superior” inhabitants. While the acting is strong and the humor is well-timed, the film ultimately lacks depth, offering only a surface-level commentary on colonization and authoritarianism instead of the profound insights we expect from the director of Parasite.
The title character, Mickey (played by Pattinson), finds himself in a dire situation in 2050. After a ill-fated venture with his friend Timo (Steven Yeun), they consider a space colonization program to escape their troubles on Earth. Lacking skills, Mickey takes on the role of an “expendable,” a dangerous job that involves putting his life on the line for the sake of the colony’s survival.
The bleakness of space life is highlighted as Mickey endures painful deaths repeatedly. He discovers a romantic connection with Nasha (Naomie Ackie), adding a glimmer of hope to his struggles. However, things take a wild turn when two versions of Mickey exist at the same time. This predicament complicates their lives, especially when the new version harbors a grudge against their oppressive leader, Kenneth Marshall (Mark Ruffalo).
One of the film’s standout aspects is the performance by Naomie Ackie, whose portrayal of Nasha brings warmth and relatability to the story. Pattinson also excels as he juggles two distinct personalities, showcasing both charm and humor. Their interactions create an engaging dynamic throughout the film, providing moments of genuine laughter.
While Ackie and Pattinson shine, other characters fall flat. Mark Ruffalo’s Marshall is meant to be a caricature of a dictator but ends up feeling uninspired. Similarly, Toni Collette’s character lacks depth, and Steven Yeun’s Timo is barely developed, making these characters feel more like props than integral parts of the story.
The film’s visuals are striking, especially the design of the alien “creepers,” enhancing the sci-fi experience. The sound design immerses viewers, creating an atmospheric backdrop that elevates the narrative.
Despite its strengths, Mickey 17 struggles to find its focus. It hints at deeper themes of identity and environmental issues, yet it never fully explores them. The film’s conclusion feels rushed, failing to provide satisfying answers to the compelling questions it raises.
In summary, Mickey 17 is an entertaining watch with talented performances and a creative premise. However, its lack of cohesive storytelling and underdeveloped characters make it one of Bong Joon-ho’s lesser works. Even so, it stands out against other sci-fi films, providing a unique, albeit imperfect, cinematic experience.
Synopsis: Mickey, an “expendable” in a space colonization program, faces life and death repeatedly. When two versions of him exist at once, chaos ensues in their authoritarian regime. Can they survive together?
Pros:
- Strong performances by Ackie and Pattinson
- Engaging humor and emotional moments
- Impressive visual design and sound
- Intriguing premise with philosophical potential
Cons:
- Unfocused storytelling and underexplored themes
- Flat character development for supporting roles
- Rushed ending
- One of Bong Joon-ho’s weaker films
Mickey 17 premiered at the Berlin Film Festival on February 15, 2025.
