NB: Spoilers for the movie are included in this article… so read at your own risk.
Mickey 17 is a wild, genre-defying science-fiction film set aboard a spacecraft leaving Earth with the mission to colonise a snow planet. The story follows Mickey Barnes, a character who is deemed expendable. Every time his dangerous, lethal assignments result in his death, his body is reprinted and his memories are restored. In a fascinating twist, an accident leads to the co-existence of two versions of Mickey. Mickey 17 displays a profound capacity for empathy, but his counterpart, Mickey 18, descends into psychosis, sparking dialogue that is both intriguing and, at times, toxic. This internal duality creates a platform for a profound philosophical debate about the split parts of oneself. This debate resonates with the Internal Family Systems model which proposes that every individual harbours different “parts” within their psyche.
One particularly striking moment occurs when the character designated as Mickey 18 confronts Mickey 17, insisting that he is not responsible for their mother’s death. This sequence struck a chord, reflecting on how many of us carry burdensome guilt even when another, more rational aspect of our inner selves recognises that we are not at fault. This depiction is moving and relatable, highlighting the internal conflicts that mirror our human experiences of regret and self-forgiveness.
Beyond its innovative narrative structure, the film offers a cutting commentary on the broader human condition. Mickey 17 presents a world in which humanity’s ignorance towards the natural world and the consequent detriment inflicted upon other species is starkly evident. In this film, our obsessive pursuit of success overshadows our responsibility to care for the environment, a clear reflection of real-life attitudes. This theme is interwoven with ideas concerning human replication, the cult of personality (for example, Mark Ruffalo’s character), and the relentless quest for both revenge and justice.
Visually and tonally, the film evokes a multitude of cinematic references, from the immersive landscapes of Avatar and the eclectic energy of Everything Everywhere All at Once, to the evocative imagery reminiscent of 2021’s Dune. Although its message may not be entirely original or particularly subtle, the engaging performances and breathtaking cinematography make it well worth watching for those who enjoy movies that blend satire with incisive commentary.
A key highlight of Mickey 17 is the performance of Robert Pattinson and Naomi Ackie. Both actors excel as distinct individual characters. Pattinson brings a rugged determination to his role, while Ackie delivers a nuanced, emotionally charged performance. Their onscreen chemistry is palpable, enhancing the film’s narrative and adding an additional layer of depth to the interpersonal dynamics at play.
Despite its merits, the film is not without its flaws. A notable segment of the narrative, the subplot involving alien bugs, feels somewhat unnecessary. There was already ample material exploring the morality of human printing, the absurdity of a celebrity’s persona as shown by Mark Ruffalo’s character, and the intricate narrative of Mickey’s multiple existences intertwined with a thirst for revenge and justice. Omitting this subplot might have allowed the film to focus more sharply on its core themes.
The film’s release has been somewhat of a production saga. Originally slated for release on 29 March 2024, it was delayed and pushed into 2025 to accommodate production issues related to strikes and other undisclosed reasons. It was then shuffled again, seemingly to capitalise on trailer hype amid fierce competition. Distributed by Warner Bros., Mickey 17 continues to spark speculation regarding its release strategy and final editing decisions. Given its ambitious narrative and genre-blending approach, this unpredictability adds to its distinctive appeal, making it a singular cinematic experience. The film carries an IMDb rating of 6.9/10 and a Rotten Tomatoes score of 77%, reflecting a mixed yet intriguing reception among viewers and critics alike.
As a filmmaker, Bong Joon-Ho has carved a niche for challenging conventional norms with his distinctive blend of satire and surrealism. His earlier work Parasite is heralded as a masterpiece for its incisive capture of societal moments and its bold, memorable narrative choices. While the ending of Mickey 17 leaves some narrative strands unresolved and feels somewhat underwhelming compared to his typically masterful conclusions, the film still stands as an adventurous exploration of narrative structure and thematic depth.
In summary, Mickey 17 is an audacious, cinematic ride. It is thought-provoking and entertaining. Although it may lack substantial character development for many of its figures and its message might not be the most subtle, it boldly tackles themes of self-identity, environmental neglect, and the paradox of human ambition. Whether you are drawn in by its cinematic references, the intriguing philosophical debate between its split protagonists, or simply the thrill of watching the impossible made real, this film is a testament to Bong Joon-Ho’s fearless innovation in modern cinema. It remains a must-see for anyone who appreciates movies that challenge the way we perceive ourselves and the world around us.
