6 years after the release of his internationally successful and accademically acclaimed film, Parasite, Korean director and screenwriter Bong Joon-ho has gifted science fiction fans with Mickey 17, released earlier this month and based (although with quite a lot of changes) on the 2022 novel, Mickey 7. WRITTEN BY ALICIA MASSE
The film takes place in a fute that both seems distant and all too close, in which space travels are lead by failed politicians and science has reached the point of “human printing”. This film’s main character, Mickey, has made it his profession to be reprinted as many times as science demands it.
The science fiction setting might seem like a sharp turn for the director when compared to the film he is most known for, but Bong Joon-ho is far from new to the genre. 2013’s Snowpierer and Okja, released in 2017, both use science fiction elements or settings as backgrounds which the director used to explore current issues like the meat industry’s mode of operation or class based societies.
Regardless of genres, all of his films share one common trait: their narratives are politically driven and at their core, societal issues are always the real topic. In the case of Mickey 17, the science fiction element isn’t explored too deeply as it is used, more than anything, as a vessel to highlight current political matters through the eyes of the future. The science behind “human printing” is only explained very briefly and more importantly, the film doesn’t spend time showing excitement for new inventions. This future is all seen through the eyes of a character who is struggling both financially and emotionally, and isn’t a part of those benefitting from new inventions like commercial space travel.
This, however, doesn’t mean that the film is all bleak and negative. The character of Mickey, his internal struggles and growth as a person and the romantic plotline he shares with Naomi Ackie’s character, Nasha, all add a touch of humanity to the cold world that the director has created within this film. Bong Joon-ho is also used to using humour in his political commentary, making it more playfully satirical than reprimanding.
Some of this playfulness resides in the acting, especially in Robert Pattinson’s character(s), two roles in which he showed off his acting range, going from a cocky and anger-driven character to a melancholic and diffident Mickey. The dialogue’s pacing and the slightly caricatural acting may bother some viewers, although those who enjoyed Parasite may be pleased to find a similar kind of theatricality here.
Bong Joon-ho doesn’t use dramatic music and slightly cartoonish characters for mere self-indulgence; instead, he employs them to enhance the narrative and reinforce the film’s underlying philosophies. His theatrical style mirrors the performative nature of American politics, which he pointedly satirizes throughout the film. The red caps, reminiscent of “Make America Great Again” hats, the references to Elon Musk’s SpaceX, and Mark Ruffalo’s character—whose mannerisms draw clear inspiration from Donald Trump—may feel somewhat overt. However, Bong’s critique of these figures and contemporary events is presented in a way that is both sharp and accessible, ensuring his message resonates with a wide audience.
Those seeking a sci-fi film that sparks excitement about new inventions and space exploration may find this one less suited to their expectations.
However, for those interested in casting their own judgement on Bong Joon-ho’s depiction of issues like loss of control in scientific advancements, accelerationism and colonialism, this film will fit the role perfectly.
