Mickey 17 is Bong Joon Ho’s latest sci‑fi dark comedy. The film is set on a frozen planet where a man is forced to get cloned every time he dies on dangerous missions. It’s based on Edward Ashton’s novel and mixes dark humor with a clear social critique.
The story follows Mickey Barnes, who works as an “expendable” for a space colony. Each time he dies, a new copy of him is created so he can continue doing risky jobs. This unusual premise sets the stage for both absurd comedy and sharp commentary on modern society.
Visually, the film is striking. Cinematographer Darius Khondji uses cool, muted colors to capture the harsh, icy landscape of the planet Niflheim. Every shot feels carefully planned, which helps build a believable yet imaginative world.
At the heart of the film is Robert Pattinson. He plays Mickey Barnes in two different ways—once as the more timid Mickey 17, and again as the tougher, angrier Mickey 18. Pattinson’s ability to switch between these roles adds depth and keeps the audience engaged throughout the film. Pattinson keeps showing how good of an actor he is, and carries most of the movie.
Mickey 17 also features a clear political satire. One character, a president-like figure (played by Mark Rufallo), parodies Trump with exaggerated traits that spark well-timed laughs. Scenes involving this character, including a near-shooting incident, highlight the absurdity of modern authoritarian leadership.
After Parasite, expectations were high. While Mickey 17 offers creative world-building and a fun narrative, it doesn’t quite capture the emotional impact and tight storytelling of Parasite. Still, it provides plenty of moments that are both funny and thought-provoking.
Overall, Mickey 17 is an entertaining movie that balances clever ideas with playful satire. It stands out for its strong visual style and Pattinson’s impressive dual performance. Even if it doesn’t reach the same heights as Parasite, it offers a fresh and enjoyable take on a unique sci‑fi story.
