“Mickey 17,” directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Bong Joon Ho, is a science fiction black comedy that premiered at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival on February 15 of this year. The film was subsequently released in South Korea on Feb. 28, and in the United States on March 7. 

The narrative follows Mickey Barnes, portrayed by Robert Pattinson, an “Expendable” employee on a colonization mission to the icy planet Niflheim. In this role, Mickey undergoes repeated cloning after each death, with his consciousness transferred to each new body to continue perilous tasks. The plot intensifies when Mickey survives an unexpected event, leading to a confrontation with his subsequent clone, Mickey 18. 

The ensemble cast delivers stellar performances, Naomi Ackie as Nasha Barridge, Steven Yeun as Timo, Toni Collette as Ylfa, and Mark Ruffalo as Kenneth Marshall. Pattinson in particular, shines in one of his most intense roles yet, bringing a compelling mix of humor, desperation, and resilience to his character.

Critics have offered mixed reviews. The Associated Press described the film as “chaotic and bloated” as it progresses, though it praised Pattinson’s intense and physical performance. Conversely, The Daily Telegraph awarded the film four out of five stars, highlighting Bong’s genre-blending approach and Pattinson’s portrayal of Mickey. 

At the box office, “Mickey 17” debuted at number one, earning $19 million in its opening weekend.

Overall, “Mickey 17” presents a darkly comedic exploration of identity and survival, characteristic of Bong Joon Ho’s genre-blending storytelling. Bong Joon Ho once again proves his ability to push cinematic boundaries, crafting a film that is as smart as it is visually stunning.