mickey 17

Bong Joon Ho's "Mickey 17" Arrives: A Sci-Fi Satire That's Got Everyone Talking (and Maybe a Little Confused)

Okay, California, get ready. Bong Joon Ho, the mastermind behind the Oscar-sweeping "Parasite," is back with something completely different: "Mickey 17." This isn't your typical Hollywood blockbuster; it's a sci-fi dark comedy starring Robert Pattinson as an "expendable" colonist on a freezing ice planet called Niflheim. Think existential dread meets slapstick humor in space. The buzz is definitely there, with a traffic volume of around 1000 mentions recently, signaling a lot of curiosity. But what's the deal with "Mickey 17," and why is everyone from Slate to The New York Times weighing in? Let's break it down.

What's the Story? Expendability and Existentialism in Space

"Mickey 17" follows the story of Mickey Barnes, played by Robert Pattinson. Mickey is a type of worker known as an "expendable." In essence, he's a clone designed for dangerous missions. When Mickey dies (which, given the nature of his job, is pretty frequent), a new version of him is created with most of his memories intact. It's a pretty wild concept, exploring themes of identity, sacrifice, and what it means to be human (or, you know, human-ish) in a harsh, unforgiving environment.

The official synopsis tells us that Mickey is on a mission to colonize Niflheim, an ice planet. Given that he's an expendable, you can bet things aren't going to go smoothly. He's going to face dangers, ethical dilemmas, and probably a whole lot of existential crises.

Recent Buzz: What the Critics Are Saying

The initial reviews are in, and they're...mixed. Here's a quick rundown of what some major publications are saying, according to verified news reports:

• Slate: Calls it a "blast" and hints at a political undercurrent, drawing comparisons to Trump. (Bong Joon Ho’s Parasite Follow-Up Takes On Trump. It’s a Blast.](https://slate.com/culture/2025/03/mickey-17-robert-pattinson-movie-mark-ruffalo-trump.html)
• The New York Times: Describes it as a "dystopia" and a "freakout," suggesting a wild and potentially unsettling ride. ('Mickey 17’ Review: Robert Pattinson in Bong Joon Ho’s Latest Dystopia](https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/06/movies/mickey-17-review.html)
• Roger Ebert.com: Offers a full review and film summary, providing a more in-depth analysis of the movie's strengths and weaknesses. (Mickey 17 movie review & film summary (2025)](https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/mickey-17-film-review-2025)

Keep in mind that these are just initial reactions. The film premiered at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival on February 15, 2025, so more reviews and audience reactions are sure to follow.

Bong Joon Ho's World: A Blend of the Bizarre and the Brilliant

If you're familiar with Bong Joon Ho's work, you know he's not afraid to get weird. From the genetically modified super-pig in "Okja" to the mutant squid in "The Host," he has a knack for creating memorable (and sometimes disturbing) creatures. "Mickey 17" is no exception.

According to some sources, the film features "creepers," a wormy, pillbug-like species native to Niflheim. Whether they're friend or foe remains to be seen, but they definitely add another layer of intrigue to the film's already bizarre world.

The Cast: Pattinson Leads a Stellar Ensemble

Robert Pattinson is taking the lead in this film as Mickey Barnes, a role that seems perfectly suited to his post-Twilight career choices. He's consistently gravitated towards unconventional and challenging roles, and Mickey 17 appears to be no exception.

The supporting cast is equally impressive, featuring Naomi Ackie, Steven Yeun, Toni Collette, and Mark Ruffalo. This is an ensemble of talent that can handle both the dramatic and comedic elements of Bong Joon Ho's vision.

Contextual Background: From Novel to Screen

"Mickey 17" is based on the 2022 novel Mickey7 by Edward Ashton. The novel explores similar themes of expendability and identity in a sci-fi setting. It's worth noting that Bong Joon Ho is not just directing but also writing the screenplay, so expect his unique vision to be front and center.

The film's themes resonate with current anxieties about technology, labor, and the future of humanity. The idea of expendable workers, even if they're clones, raises questions about the value of life and the ethics of exploitation.

Immediate Effects: A Talking Point in Hollywood

"Mickey 17" is already generating a lot of buzz in Hollywood. Bong Joon Ho's name alone guarantees attention, and the film's unique premise and star-studded cast have only added to the hype.

The film's success (or failure) could have implications for the types of projects that studios are willing to greenlight. If "Mickey 17" proves to be a hit, it could open the door for more unconventional and thought-provoking science fiction films.

Future Outlook: Will "Mickey 17" Be the Next "Parasite"?

It's impossible to say for sure whether "Mickey 17" will achieve the same level of critical and commercial success as "Parasite." "Parasite" was a cultural phenomenon that resonated with audiences around the world. "Mickey 17" is a different beast altogether. It's darker, weirder, and potentially more challenging for mainstream audiences.

Some reviews suggest that the film is "messy, scattershot and overlong," while others praise Pattinson's performance and Bong Joon Ho's vision. Ultimately, the success of "Mickey 17" will depend on whether audiences are willing to embrace its unconventional nature and grapple with its complex themes.

One thing is certain: "Mickey 17" is a film that will spark conversation and debate. It's a bold and ambitious project from one of the most exciting filmmakers working today. Whether you love it or hate it, you won't be able to ignore it.

So, Should You See It?

If you're a fan of Bong Joon Ho's work, Robert Pattinson's acting, or thought-provoking science fiction, then "Mickey 17" is definitely worth checking out. Just be prepared for a film that's a little bit different from your typical Hollywood fare. It's a weird, wild ride that's sure to leave you thinking. And in a world of predictable blockbusters, that's a pretty refreshing thing.