Mickey 17, a thought-provoking film written and directed by acclaimed filmmaker Bong Joon Ho, features a stellar cast including Robert Pattinson, Naomi Ackie, Mark Ruffalo, Toni Collette, and Steven Yeun. The movie explores the life of Mickey Barnes, an “expendable” crew member sent on a dangerous mission to colonize the ice planet Niflheim. The film delves into profound themes of mortality, social status, and the human condition, all wrapped in Bong Joon Ho’s signature style.
The plot follows Mickey Barnes, portrayed by Robert Pattinson, who is repeatedly regenerated after each death during his perilous tasks. His existence raises the haunting question, “What does it feel like to die?” As an expendable crew member, Mickey faces numerous fatal challenges, including contracting deadly airborne viruses for research purposes. This premise sets the stage for a unique exploration of life, death, and the nature of existence.
Bong Joon Ho, known for his incisive social commentary, uses Mickey 17 to reflect on contemporary issues. The film critiques the treatment of lower-class individuals, paralleling Mickey’s status on the ship to real-world government actions that strip funding from essential programs. The presence of a Trump-like figure, played by Mark Ruffalo, adds another layer of satire, making the film feel timely yet slightly dated due to its political references.
At the heart of Mickey 17 is the relationship between Mickey and fellow crew member Nasha, played by Naomi Ackie. Their instant connection serves as a rare emotional anchor in a story filled with existential dread. However, Nasha’s character initially feels underdeveloped, reduced to a mere love interest until the film’s climactic moments. As Mickey navigates his multiple lives, his interactions with Nasha bring forth questions of identity and self-worth.
The film introduces an intriguing narrative twist when Mickey’s 18th version is created, showcasing a stark contrast between the two characters. Mickey 17 is bumbling and comical, while Mickey 18 emerges as assertive and rebellious. This duality raises questions about identity and personal growth within the confines of regeneration, as both characters learn from each other amidst their comical bickering.
Despite its ambitious themes, Mickey 17 suffers from pacing issues and an overstuffed narrative. While the film attempts to weave together various motifs, including working-class struggles and animal rights, it often feels bloated. The interactions between the characters, particularly with the exaggerated portrayal of Ruffalo’s villain, detract from the film’s overall impact, rendering some moments grating rather than humorous.
In conclusion, Mickey 17 offers a unique blend of humor, social commentary, and existential musings, characteristic of Bong Joon Ho’s filmmaking style. However, it ultimately struggles to maintain narrative momentum and cohesion. The film’s unevenness and the challenge of balancing its many themes prevent it from achieving its full potential. Flickering Myth rates the film ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★ ★, reflecting its mixed execution.
