A disposable employee is sent on a human expedition to colonize the ice world Niflheim. After one iteration dies, a new body is regenerated with most of his memories intact.
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| (C) Warner Bros. |
It's easy to criticize Hollywood for not taking risks in an era that favors established intellectual properties. Enter Mickey 17 from a studio previously known for handing out $100 million to auteurs (e.g., Cloud Atlas and Inception come to mind). This time around, Bong Joon-ho receives that pile of cash to create something fresh and reflective. And he did. If only the box office weren’t a factor, this would be money well spent for Warner Bros.
What really makes this stand out among its sci-fi peers is that, despite all the big themes, it's still entertaining throughout. The dark humor is sprinkled in here and there. There aren’t many action sequences, but those that exist leave a lasting impression. Of course, the film leaves you in a reflective mood, as Bong Joon-ho clearly intends with his work. Fans of Snowpiercer and Okja will have a blast with this one.
Evidently, the film has a lot to say, both literally and figuratively. Mickey 17 takes its time, allowing us a closer look at the world they’ve built. It feels like Bong’s take on the America we currently endure. It also offers insightful commentary on colonialism and religion. Death is also explored in some way in this film, along with many other themes. It’s all compelling, make no mistake, and Bong is known for his unsubtle showcases of these themes. However, as he juggles all these elements, it just didn’t feel as cohesive as one might hope. It's nice that it didn't feel the need to follow the common Hollywood story formula, but there are moments when it could, ironically, have used a bit of it.
Fortunately, the performances keep things moving forward. It’s a great ensemble, really. Robert Pattinson continues to prove that he’s an outstanding actor capable of playing any role, as he distinguishes Mickey 17 from Mickey 18. It’s clear he had a blast making this film. Naomi Mackie and Toni Collette are also at the top of their game. Mark Ruffalo’s character took me a little time to get used to, but he did well too.
Call it cliché, but Mickey 17 is exactly what we should be seeing in cinemas. What Bong Joon-ho and his entire crew did here is worthy of being seen on the big screen. It’s a funny, unabashedly direct, and thought-provoking sci-fi film that we rarely get to experience. And when you have more Robert Pattinson, there’s even more to like. 4/5.
Film is now playing in PH cinemas and IMAX.
