Mickey 17: Darkly hilarious and utterly unforgettable
Title: Mickey 17
Release date: Mar 6, 2025
Duration: 2 hours 17 minutes
Director: Bong Joon-ho
Starring: Robert Pattinson, Naomi Ackie, Steven Yeun, Toni Collette, Mark Ruffalo
Genre: Sci-Fi/Dark Comedy
Rating: M18
Score: ✓✓✓✓
Bong Joon-ho's Mickey 17 is a darkly comedic and thought-provoking exploration of a dystopian future where life is cheap, death is temporary, and the pursuit of happiness is a radical act.
In a corporatised future, Mickey Barnes (Robert Pattinson) works as an "Expendable" - a worker drone repeatedly killed and reborn on a space mission.
When Mickey 17 survives a fatal accident, he must coexist with his replacement, Mickey 18, leading to complications and a desperate fight for survival against a backdrop of corporate greed and political fanaticism.
HITS
Acting:
Robert Pattinson delivers a captivating and nuanced performance as the various iterations of Mickey, capturing both the character's inherent vulnerability and his surprising resilience.
He effectively portrays the subtle differences between each Mickey, showcasing his impressive range and solidifying his status as a versatile and engaging actor.
Ackie and Yeun are equally compelling, portraying complex individuals grappling with the moral compromises required for survival in a morally bankrupt world. Collette and Ruffalo, as the film's antagonists, embrace their over-the-top roles with evident relish, providing a darkly comedic counterpoint to the protagonists' struggles.
Direction:
Bong Joon-ho's distinct directorial style is evident throughout Mickey 17, seamlessly blending sharp social commentary with moments of absurdist humour and genuine pathos.
His vision for the film is clear and expertly executed, creating a dystopian world that feels both fantastical and unsettlingly familiar.
He utilises a range of cinematic techniques, including striking visuals, sharp editing, and a dynamic soundtrack, to enhance the storytelling and immerse the viewer in the film's unsettling atmosphere.
Production Value:
The film's production value is consistently high, contributing significantly to its overall impact. The visual effects are seamlessly integrated into the narrative, enhancing the futuristic setting without ever feeling distracting or overdone.
The set design and costumes are equally impressive, creating a believable and visually striking dystopian world that feels both lived-in and oppressive.
The soundtrack further elevates the film, expertly complementing its shifting moods with a mix of unsettling melodies and darkly humorous musical cues.
Audience Appeal:
Mickey 17 offers a unique and thought-provoking cinematic experience that is sure to resonate with a broad audience.
Fans of Bong Joon-ho's previous work will appreciate his signature blend of social satire and dark humour, while those who enjoy intelligent sci-fi with a comedic edge will find much to admire here.
The film's exploration of corporate greed, political manipulation, and the inherent value of human life resonates with contemporary anxieties, making it a timely and relevant piece of film-making.
MISSES
Storyline:
Bong Joon-ho crafts a compelling and largely novel narrative in Mickey 17, exploring intriguing themes of identity, corporate exploitation, and the search for meaning in a dehumanising world.
While the film's reliance on exposition to convey some of its more complex ideas might not appeal to all viewers, the underlying story is both thought-provoking and engaging.
The pacing occasionally falters, particularly during the second act, but the unique premise and the film's overall message ultimately carry the narrative forward.
IS IT WORTH THE WATCH?
Mickey 17 is a darkly funny, thought-provoking, and visually stunning film that confirms Bong Joon-ho's status as a master film-maker.
Its exploration of complex themes, coupled with its strong performances and distinctive directorial style, makes for a rewarding and ultimately hopeful cinematic experience.
This is a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, prompting reflection on the nature of humanity and the world we are creating.