Mickey 17 Review: Bong Joon Ho’s Sci-Fi Mind-Bender is Weird, Bold, and Brilliant

Mickey 17:

When Bong Joon Ho is at the helm of a film, you can expect something extraordinary. His ability to blend social commentary with genre storytelling is unparalleled, as seen in works like Parasite and Snowpiercer. With Mickey 17, he ventures into the depths of space. Featuring Robert Pattinson in a complex dual role, this sci-fi thriller explores themes of identity, survival, and the essence of humanity beyond just space colonization.

Plot: More Than Just Another Space Journey

The narrative centers on Mickey Barnes (Pattinson), an "Expendable" tasked with colonizing the icy planet Niflheim. In this future, Expendables are human workers assigned to perilous jobs, fully aware that if they perish, their consciousness will be transferred into a newly cloned body. Sounds convenient, right?

However, chaos ensues when Mickey 17, thought to be dead, returns to discover that his replacement, Mickey 18, is already living his life. The existence of two versions of the same individual creates significant complications for the mission. With colony leaders (played by Mark Ruffalo and Toni Collette) striving to maintain control, and his only ally Nasha (Naomi Ackie) questioning the morality of the situation, Mickey must navigate the challenge of surviving—again. As tensions rise, the film takes unexpected turns, revealing secrets about the cloning technology, the true nature of the mission, and the ethical dilemmas faced by those in charge. The psychological tension between the two Mickeys adds an intriguing layer, making the audience question who truly deserves to exist.

Performance: Robert Pattinson Excels

Any lingering doubts about Robert Pattinson’s acting abilities after Twilight are dispelled in this film. He portrays both versions of Mickey with remarkable depth—one is jaded and disillusioned, while the other is vibrant and driven. Observing his interactions with himself is both captivating and disconcerting. The supporting cast is impressive, but it’s clear that this film belongs to Pattinson from beginning to end. Naomi Ackie provides a strong emotional core as Nasha, adding warmth to the otherwise cold and clinical environment. Meanwhile, Mark Ruffalo and Toni Collette bring a mix of authority and subtle menace, making the film’s power dynamics even more compelling.

Bong Joon Ho’s Vision: A Masterclass in Sci-Fi Storytelling

Bong doesn’t merely create sci-fi films—he transforms them. While Mickey 17 incorporates elements of traditional space movies, it is infused with his trademark dark humor and social commentary. The film poses profound questions: Are we merely products of our memories? Can we genuinely replace ourselves? And what occurs when the system deems us obsolete?

Visually, the film is breathtaking. The frigid landscapes of Niflheim appear vast and harsh, while the interiors of the colony are stark and sterile, highlighting the diminishing humanity in this mission. The cinematography evokes a sense of entrapment, mirroring Mickey’s predicament. The film’s score, composed by Jung Jae-il (Parasite, Squid Game), enhances the eerie, reflective tone, adding emotional weight to key moments. The special effects, though not overbearing, serve the narrative well, making the cloning process feel both fascinating and unsettling. The way Bong utilizes practical effects alongside CGI gives the film a tactile, grounded feel that enhances its authenticity.

What Could Be Better?

While Mickey 17 is undoubtedly a brilliant film, it may not be for everyone. Some viewers might find the pacing slow at times, especially in the film’s second act where the philosophical and existential elements take center stage. Additionally, while the film’s ending is thought-provoking, it leaves a few questions unanswered—deliberately so, but this could frustrate audiences who prefer clear resolutions. The movie’s complexity requires full attention, making it less accessible for casual viewers looking for a straightforward sci-fi adventure.

Final Verdict: A Must-See for Sci-Fi Enthusiasts

Mickey 17 is far from a conventional popcorn movie. It’s intelligent, bizarre, and tackles significant themes. If you appreciate thought-provoking, philosophical sci-fi with an undercurrent of existential anxiety (think Blade Runner 2049 meets Moon), this film is for you. Robert Pattinson delivers one of his finest performances, and Bong Joon Ho reaffirms his status as one of the greatest filmmakers of our era.

Beyond the film’s gripping sci-fi elements, it also leaves audiences with a sense of unease—what does it mean to be truly irreplaceable? How much control do we really have over our own existence? Mickey 17 doesn’t provide easy answers, but it certainly sparks deep discussion long after the credits roll.

What Are Your Thoughts?

Did you watch Mickey 17? What did you think about its mind-bending themes and Robert Pattinson’s performance? Do you think the movie did justice to its sci-fi premise, or were there elements that didn’t quite work for you? Drop your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear your perspective!

Final rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5) – An exhilarating, contemplative journey through space and self-identity.