South Korean filmmaker Bong Joon-ho, known for his groundbreaking work on Parasite, is set to return to the big screen with Mickey 17. This highly anticipated movie, based on Edward Ashton’s 2022 novel Mickey7, promises a mix of thought-provoking ideas, emotional depth, and dark humor. Here's everything we know so far about this exciting sci-fi black comedy.
Mickey 17 is a futuristic tale centered on themes of identity, immortality, and survival. The story follows Mickey Barnes, an "expendable" human clone sent to help colonize a freezing ice planet. The movie features Robert Pattinson, Naomi Ackie, Mark Ruffalo, Toni Collette, and Steven Yeun. It is set to release on March 7, 2025.
When one clone dies, another is regenerated with its memories intact. Things take a wild turn when Mickey 17 encounters Mickey 18, a discovery that challenges their society's strict rules against multiple clones coexisting.
Edward Ashton’s novel Mickey7 was praised for its clever humor, high-concept story, and engaging exploration of identity. These elements make it a perfect match for Bong Joon-ho, a director celebrated for balancing intense drama with absurd situations.
His ability to blend deep themes with captivating storytelling promises a fresh and unique adaptation.
Meet the cast of Mickey 17
Robert Pattinson as Mickey Barnes
Robert Pattinson, known for blockbuster roles like Edward Cullen in Twilight and the titular character in The Batman, stars as Mickey Barnes. Mickey is a clone, called an "expendable," sent on dangerous missions on a harsh ice planet.
When he discovers another version of himself, Mickey 18, it sparks questions about identity, humanity, and the rules of their society. Pattinson brings depth and vulnerability to this thought-provoking character.
Mark Ruffalo as Hieronymous Marshall
Mark Ruffalo, famous for playing the Hulk in The Avengers and starring in films like Zodiac and Spotlight, plays Hieronymous Marshall. He is a powerful leader who enforces strict laws against clones coexisting.
As one of the main antagonists, Marshall’s mission is to eliminate both Mickey 17 and Mickey 18, making him a significant threat to the story's protagonists.
Steven Yeun as Berto
Steven Yeun, celebrated for his role as Glenn in The Walking Dead and his Oscar-nominated performance in Minari, plays Berto. Berto is Mickey’s friend and emotional support.
He stands by Mickey during difficult times, even offering humor to lighten tense situations, like suggesting a game of rock-paper-scissors to decide which Mickey survives.
Naomi Ackie as Nasha Adjaya
Naomi Ackie, known for her work in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker and The End of the F**ing World*, plays Nasha Adjaya. Unlike others, Nasha is curious and excited to meet both Mickey 17 and Mickey 18. Her open-minded nature provides a refreshing perspective in a society that views clones as disposable.
Toni Collette as Gwen Johansen
Toni Collette, an acting powerhouse with iconic roles in The Sixth Sense, Hereditary, and Knives Out, plays Gwen Johansen. Gwen is another antagonist who sees expendable clones like Mickey as nothing more than tools. Her cold and calculating demeanor adds another layer of tension to the story.
Supporting cast -
Holliday Grainger as Gemma
Holliday Grainger, known for Cinderella and The Borgias, portrays Gemma. While her role remains a mystery, her inclusion hints at an intriguing and possibly pivotal character in the story.
Steve Park as Agent Zeke
Steve Park, who worked with Bong Joon-ho in Snowpiercer, plays Agent Zeke. His character appears to have a key supporting role, but more details are awaited about his part in the plot.
Angus Imrie as Shrimp Eyes
Angus Imrie, familiar to fans of Star Trek: Prodigy and The Crown, plays a mysterious character named Shrimp Eyes. With such an unusual name, his role is bound to be intriguing and possibly quirky.
Thomas Turgoose and Anamaria Vartolomei
Thomas Turgoose (This Is England) and Anamaria Vartolomei (Happening) are also part of the cast, but their roles haven’t been revealed yet, adding to the suspense surrounding the movie.
The cast of Mickey 17 is packed with talented actors who bring a mix of star power and nuanced performances. Each actor adds their unique flavor to this thrilling sci-fi story, making it a movie worth anticipating!
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