By Anthony Caruso
Bong Joon-ho's Mickey 17 is a cinematic marvel that masterfully intertwines dark comedy and science fiction, delivering a narrative both timely and emotionally resonant. Based on Edward Ashton's novel "Mickey7," the film explores themes of identity, exploitation, and survival, set against the backdrop of a dystopian future.
The story follows Mickey Barnes, an "Expendable" crew member on a mission to colonize the icy planet Niflheim. Tasked with perilous assignments, Mickey is cloned and "reprinted" after each death, embodying the expendability of lower-class workers in a capitalist society. Pattinson's portrayal of Mickey is both sincere and scrappy, capturing the character's resilience and vulnerability. Not only that though! His dual performance as multiple iterations of Mickey showcases his versatility as an actor, for he brings distinct nuances to each clone. This duality adds depth to the narrative, emphasizing the psychological toll of Mickey's existence.
The supporting cast enhances the film's satirical edge. Mark Ruffalo and Toni Collette deliver standout performances as over-the-top figures reminiscent of Trump-era excess, embodying the grotesque nature of unchecked power and greed. Their portrayals add a layer of dark humor, highlighting the absurdity of their characters' moral corruption. And, in my opinion, they steal every scene they're in. Then there's Naomi Ackie, who shines as Nasha Barridge, a security agent and Mickey's romantic interest. Ackie brings warmth and complexity to her role. Meanwhile, Anamaria Vartolomei's character - Kai - is a fun addition to the movie, though she feels underutilized, and leaves the audience yearning for more of her presence and backstory. (She's also so beautiful, it's nearly criminal how distracting she is whenever she's on-screen!) Steven Yeun rounds out our main cast, delivering a compelling performance as a completely awful character who is sure to draw your ire. His portrayal adds tension to the narrative, reflecting the complexities of human nature in survival scenarios, and is sure to be a revelation to those who only know him as the kind-hearted Glenn on The Walking Dead.
Visually, Mickey 17 is stunning. The set design immerses viewers in a meticulously crafted dystopian world, while the sound mixing and musical score enhance the film's atmospheric tension. The special effects are seamless, bringing the alien environment and its inhabitants to life. Indeed, the film's design of the "Creepers" is noteworthy. Initially presented as alien and repulsive, they gradually reveal endearing qualities and become - dare I say - "cute", challenging viewers' preconceived notions and evoking empathy. This transformation underscores Bong's talent for subverting expectations and humanizing the other.
Despite its many strengths, the film's pacing falters in the final act. At 137 minutes, certain scenes feel protracted, and a more concise runtime could have heightened the narrative's impact. Nevertheless, Mickey 17 is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged film that showcases Bong Joon-ho's directorial prowess. Its timely themes and stellar performances make it a must-see, particularly on the big screen where its visual and auditory elements can be fully appreciated. Despite minor pacing issues, the film stands as a testament to the power of science fiction to reflect and critique societal issues.