The name Bong Joon-ho is synonymous with intrigue, given his acclaimed work on Parasite. Now, he is diving into the realm of science fiction with Mickey 17, a compelling examination of identity, sacrifice, and survival. With the film set to premiere in March 2025, fans can now enjoy a set of nine character posters and a trailer that promise a transformative cinematic experience. The film stars Robert Pattinson as Mickey Barnes, a clone who sacrifices himself for the collective, blending dystopian themes, contemplative ideas, and Bong’s usual humor.
A Bold Sci-Fi Narrative
Adapted from Edward Ashton’s 2022 book Mickey 7, the story follows Mickey Barnes, a clone designated as “expendable,” who undertakes perilous missions on the frigid planet Niflheim. Every death results in a new clone with the same memories. However, complications arise when two versions of Mickey exist simultaneously—17 and 18—leading to essential inquiries about selfhood, ethics, and the soul.
Robert Pattinson’s Audacious Transformation
Robert Pattinson continues to build his reputation as an actor unbound by norms. Known for his unique roles in films like The Lighthouse and Good Time, he initially tried to channel Steve-O from Jackass to shape Mickey’s character. Although this radical approach was eventually dropped, it highlights Pattinson’s eagerness to challenge himself. He acknowledged, “I might’ve taken too large a swing,” indicating that his creative experimentation may yield a performance filled with emotional complexity and surprise.







The Significance of ‘Mickey 17′
Bong Joon-ho’s move into high-budget cinema with Mickey 17 is significant. Following the unprecedented success of Parasite, which won four Oscars, including Best Picture, this project reflects his ambition to break cultural and cinematic boundaries. Renowned for merging personal and political themes, Bong aims to address critical issues like climate change, corporate greed, and cloning ethics, all while crafting a narrative filled with emotional resonance.
Twists in Release Dates
The path to the release of Mickey 17 has been bumpy. Originally set for March 2024, the film has faced several delays before settling on March 7, 2025. This shift has raised eyebrows, particularly since early-year slots are often perceived as homes for subpar films. However, Warner Bros.’ faith in Bong’s unique storytelling may challenge this assumption, proving that visionary, high-stakes cinema has its place in the industry.
What are your thoughts on the concept of Mickey 17? Do you think high-budget, auteur-led science fiction films can thrive in today’s franchise-heavy climate? We’d love to hear your opinion!








