Mickey 17 is the latest film from legendary Korean film director, Bong Joon Ho. He’s known for directing films such as, The host, Memories of Murder, Snowpiercer, and for his 2019 film Parasite. Bong Joon Ho had everyone wondering what movie he can make after Parasite due to it being his magnum opus and we got the answer with Mickey 17. Just to catch up on why this is important, Parasite set the bar really high for whatever Bong Joon Ho decided to do next, especially due to what that movie was able to do. Not only was it beloved by many and is considered to be one of the best movies of all time, but it was the first ever foreign movie to win best picture at the Oscars.
Anyway, Mickey 17 is about this character named Mickey, played by Robert Pattinson, who’s job is to be an expendable. On his 17th life he survives due to a creature on that planet saving his life. When he goes back to his home, he sees he’s been replaced which leads to many issues. I would like to start and say that this movie is very odd, mainly due to the characters. And while this movie has mainstream appeal, I still think the oddness of this movie might turn of people who want to watch this for the first time.
Starting with the positives, the CGI is phenomenal and looks great, same with the cinematography. All of the performances are Oscar worthy, especially Mark Ruffalo, Robert Pattinson and Toni Collette. I think for Robert playing two characters with different personalities, he really pulled it off. Due to the characters being odd, the comedy in this movie just happens naturally. The score of this movie was also phenomenal as at times it can also be odd, but also the right sound to get the story going.
With the stuff I’m mixed about, I think the dialogue is pretty hit or miss. Sometimes it sounds natural other times it’s corny movie lines. Sense that’s the only thing I’m mixed on let’s just go to the negatives. For starters, I don’t like Nasha as a character. Which is pretty bad if this is a character that you’re supposed to be routing for. I also thought the scientists in this movie were portrayed in a stereotypical way with them being made out to be way too nerdy. Which probably isn’t a great criticism but to a point it did bother me a bit.
Overall, Mickey 17 is a very enjoyable movie with a lot of positives. While the argument can be made that this is the worst film in Bong Joon Ho’s filmography, this for other directors would be their best film. This movie deserves a 4/5 and I recommend you watch this movie.
