Photo credit: www.goldderby.com
Bong Joon Ho Returns with ‘Mickey 17’
After a five-year hiatus following his historic Oscar sweep for Parasite, director Bong Joon Ho is back with his most ambitious project to date, Mickey 17. Set for theatrical release on March 7, this long-awaited science fiction film premiered to positive reactions at the Berlin Film Festival last weekend.
In Mickey 17, Robert Pattinson stars as the titular character, who is introduced as an “expendable”—individuals sacrificed for the demands of a capitalist society and brought back to life through advanced science. The film intriguingly weaves two avatars of Pattinson’s role as Mickey, showcasing the complexities of his character. The cast includes notable performances from Naomie Ackie, Steven Yeun, Mark Ruffalo, and Toni Collette, who portray roles that reflect the more farcical aspects of contemporary political figures.
This film marks Bong’s third venture into English-language cinema, following well-regarded films such as Snowpiercer and Okja. Critics have stated that Mickey 17 may be his strongest entry yet. David Ehrlich from Indiewire praised the film as a “wry, delightful, and resoundingly sweet mega-budget space adventure,” further asserting that it seamlessly combines elements from both previous films. With a Rotten Tomatoes score hovering near 79 percent and a Metacritic rating of 73, the reviews highlight a generally favorable reception, although some critics express reservations regarding its tonal balance.
Critics Weigh In on ‘Mickey 17’
Reviewers have provided diverse perspectives on the thematic depth and execution of Bong’s work. For instance, Pete Hammond of Deadline emphasizes the film’s exploration of dehumanization and class disparities, suggesting that it resonates with anyone who feels marginalized in society. Hammond lauds the incorporation of humor amidst the film’s darker themes, capturing the essence of Bong’s unique storytelling approach.
On the other hand, Peter Debruge from Variety posits that while the film might thrill dedicated fans, it risks becoming excessive and preachy, detracting from its overall impact. Debruge suggests that although the visual aesthetic is striking, it sometimes prioritizes style over coherent thematic development.
Yet another perspective comes from David Rooney of The Hollywood Reporter, who expresses confusion regarding the film’s target audience and its thematic message. He notes that while the film touches on significant concepts like the ethical implications of scientific advancement, these ideas often get overshadowed by moments of more superficial humor.
In contrast, Alison Willmore from New York highlights the film’s poignant examination of self-worth and societal roles, positing that its conclusion offers a refreshing sense of hope. This contrasts with the more cynical undertones that characterize much of Bong’s previous work.
Lastly, Peter Bradshaw from The Guardian remarks on the film’s dual nature of humor and horror, suggesting that despite its engaging visual style, the narrative sometimes feels loose and unfocused.
Overall, Mickey 17 promises to be a complex addition to Bong Joon Ho’s filmography, reflecting both the director’s signature storytelling style and a keen commentary on contemporary societal issues.
Source
www.goldderby.com