Mickey 17: Bong Joon Ho’s Darkly Comedic Exploration of Immortality and Identity
Bong Joon Ho, the visionary director behind the Oscar-winning "Parasite," returns with "Mickey 17," a futuristic dark sci-fi comedy that delves into the unsettling implications of immortality and the complexities of human identity. Based on Edward Ashton’s 2022 novel, the film stars Robert Pattinson as Mickey Barnes, an expendable space worker who experiences death and rebirth in a most unusual way.
"Mickey 17" earns a rating of three out of four stars, promising a compelling cinematic experience that blends political satire, "Monty Python"-esque humor, and thought-provoking themes. The film paints a picture of a future where the line between life and death is blurred, raising questions about the value of human existence and the potential for exploitation in a world where individuals can be readily replicated.
Pattinson embodies the character of Mickey Barnes, a macaron chef burdened by debt who seeks a fresh start by joining a colonizing expedition to a remote, icy planet. Unbeknownst to him, he signs up to be an "expendable," a role that entails facing hazardous conditions and the potential for repeated deaths.
The film’s premise revolves around Mickey’s unique ability to be resurrected after death. Using organic waste, a human printer creates a new version of Mickey, complete with his memories intact. This process of death and rebirth becomes a recurring motif, highlighting the dehumanizing aspects of a society that treats individuals as disposable commodities.
As Mickey experiences multiple deaths and resurrections, the film explores themes of classism, colonialism, and the dehumanization of others. The spaceship that carries the colonists is divided into distinct sections, with the privileged elite residing in opulent quarters while Mickey and his peers are relegated to cramped, utilitarian spaces that resemble a cross between an office, a prison, and a military barracks.
The film critiques the social hierarchy, exposing the disparities between the haves and have-nots. The expedition’s leader, Kenneth Marshall (played by Mark Ruffalo), embodies the banality of evil, a talk-show host-turned-wannabe dictator who seeks to exploit and exterminate both the Mickeys and the planet’s indigenous species, the Creepers.
The Creepers, depicted as centipede/mammoth hybrids, become unexpected allies in Mickey’s struggle for survival. After Mickey 17 is left for dead in an icy cave, the Creepers rescue him, sparking a connection between the human colonizers and the planet’s native inhabitants.
The film explores the ethical implications of colonialism, questioning the right of humans to invade and exploit alien worlds. The dehumanization of the Creepers mirrors the treatment of the Mickeys, highlighting the tendency of those in power to view others as less than human.
As Mickey 17 and Mickey 18 grapple with their shared identity and the threat posed by Marshall, they come to realize their own power and agency. The film underscores the importance of self-acceptance and the ability to overcome adversity through collective action.
Pattinson delivers a nuanced performance, portraying Mickey 17 as a lovable loser with a squeaky voice and a melancholic demeanor. He contrasts this with the unhinged personality of Mickey 18, showcasing the character’s transformation as he confronts his own mortality and purpose.
While "Mickey 17" may not reach the same heights as "Parasite," it remains a compelling and thought-provoking film that showcases Bong Joon Ho’s ability to weave complex narratives and explore profound themes. The film’s exploration of immortality, identity, and the dehumanizing effects of power makes it a timely and relevant commentary on contemporary society.
The film’s supporting cast also shines, with Naomi Ackie delivering a powerful performance as Nasha, Mickey’s girlfriend, who serves as a voice of reason and empathy in a world filled with cruelty and indifference. Toni Collette embodies the narcissistic tendencies of Ylfa, Marshall’s sauce-obsessed wife, adding a layer of dark humor to the film’s social commentary.
Despite its strengths, "Mickey 17" does have some shortcomings. The film attempts to pack a lot into its 2 hours and 17 minutes, leaving some character development unexplored. Mickey’s co-workers could have benefited from more fleshed-out backstories, and the film could have explored the potential for a wider range of Mickey variations.
Nevertheless, "Mickey 17" offers a unique and engaging cinematic experience that blends humor, satire, and social commentary. The film’s exploration of immortality, identity, and the dehumanizing effects of power makes it a relevant and thought-provoking work that will resonate with audiences long after the credits roll.
Ultimately, "Mickey 17" is a testament to Bong Joon Ho’s vision and Pattinson’s versatility as an actor. The film’s quirky underdog story offers a timely escape where empathy can overcome cruelty on the other side of the galaxy.
