Film: Mickey 17 (2025)
- Director / Writer / Producer: Bong Joon-ho (Oscar-winner for Parasite)
- Based on: Mickey 7, a 2022 sci-fi novel by Edward Ashton
- Cast: Robert Pattinson (in multiple clone roles), Naomi Ackie, Steven Yeun, Toni Collette, Mark Ruffalo
- Storyline: Set in 2054, Mickey Barnes is an “Expendable” — a disposable worker on a colonization mission who is resurrected every time he dies. Conflict arises when Mickey 17 survives a mission only to discover a new clone, Mickey 18, has already taken his place. The film explores the identity crisis and deeper ethical implications as both clones exist simultaneously amid tensions with alien life forms.
- Runtime & Release: 137 minutes. Premiered in February 2025 in London, released globally in March 2025
- Budget and Earnings: Budgeted around $118 million, earned approximately $132 million — likely broke even or ran at a slight loss
Novel: Mickey 7 by Edward Ashton
- Premise: Mickey volunteers as an “Expendable” for a high-risk colonization mission. Every time he dies, a new version of him is printed with most of his memories. When Mickey 7 returns from a supposedly fatal mission, he finds his replacement, Mickey 8, already integrated into the crew.
- Style: Witty, darkly humorous, fast-paced with philosophical undertones.
- Reception: Well-received, known for mixing sci-fi with existential and satirical themes.
Themes & Style
- Identity & Selfhood: Central conflict revolves around what makes someone you.
- Capitalism & Exploitation: Expendables are treated as tools, raising questions about labor and ethics.
- Colonialism & Alien Life: Human colonization of a dangerous ice planet highlights parallels with real-world imperialism.
- Genre: Sci-fi with elements of black comedy, slapstick, and existential drama
- Director’s Signature: Bong Joon-ho’s social satire and visual style are present throughout, though some critics felt it lacked the narrative punch of Parasite.
Streaming & Availability
- Currently available to stream on HBO Max
- Also available for digital rental and purchase on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play
Critical Reception
- Overall: Generally positive reviews.
- Praise: Robert Pattinson’s performance, creative visual effects, bold themes.
- Criticism: Tonal inconsistency; some found the plot dense or too quirky.
- Audience Reaction: Sci-fi fans and fans of Bong Joon-ho’s work generally appreciated the originality, though some expected a more grounded story.
Additional Media
- Art Book: “The Art and Making of Mickey 17” offers behind-the-scenes content, interviews, and concept art
- Soundtrack: Composed by Jung Jae-il (who also scored Parasite and Okja), available on streaming and vinyl
Summary
Mickey 17 is a smart, satirical sci-fi film that asks deep questions about selfhood, sacrifice, and society. If you enjoy cerebral science fiction with dark humor and philosophical tension, it’s well worth watching. Reading the novel Mickey 7 adds even more context and depth to the story.
