Robert Pattinson Shines in Bong Joon-ho’s Mickey 17 [Review]

Beware: A gentle spoiler alert lies ahead for the masterpiece known as Mickey 17.

If one seeks to tackle weighty societal issues without overwhelming the masses, envelop them in the guise of a genre. It is a time-honored narrative tactic, one that maestro Bong Joon-ho has skillfully honed over his illustrious career. From the monstrous allegory of The Host to the dystopian critique of Snowpiercer, and even the whimsical anti-capitalism satire of Okja, Bong has wielded this technique with finesse. The recent Best Picture winner Parasite stands as a trenchant dissection of class divide, seamlessly continuing this tradition in Mickey 17.

Drawing from Edward Ashton’s novel Mickey 7, Mickey 17 thrusts us into the world of Mickey Barnes, portrayed by the versatile Robert Pattinson. Mickey is what they call an "Expendable," a mere cog in the machinations of the enigmatic Kenneth Marshall’s plans to colonize the extraterrestrial realm of Nilfheim. However, a premature rollout of a new Mickey disrupts the status quo, setting in motion a chain of events that forces the old and new to coexist and confront Marshall’s true intentions for the colony.

In essence, Mickey 17 mirrors the tonal shifts of Snowpiercer and Okja, crafting a unique melange of slapstick humor, social commentary, and poignant moments one might not expect from the director of Parasite. The interplay of actors occasionally creates a sense of dissonance, perhaps a deliberate nod to Bong’s subversive style. However, where the film falls short is in its handling of political themes, at times opting for broad humor over incisive critique.

Robert Pattinson’s skillful portrayal of Mickey proves to be the film’s saving grace, infusing the character with layers of complexity that transcend the erratic screenplay. His profound depiction of Mickey’s existential musings and inner turmoil elevates Mickey 17 beyond its thematic inconsistencies, offering a glimpse into the profound questions of mortality and identity that underpin the narrative.

As Mickey navigates the labyrinth of life and death, we are compelled to ponder the very essence of humanity and the weight of our finite existence. Through Pattinson’s poignant portrayal, Mickey’s journey becomes a poignant meditation on forgiveness, self-discovery, and the timeless struggle with our own mortality. While Mickey 17 may fall short of its full potential, it serves as a testament to the power of artistry and introspection in the face of life’s profound uncertainties.

In conclusion, Mickey 17 beckons viewers to contemplate the enigma of existence, inviting us to delve into the depths of our own mortality and the boundless complexities of the human experience. Let us embrace these ponderings as we journey alongside Mickey through the realms of comedy, tragedy, and everything in between.

Mickey 17 graces the silver screen in all its glory.