Bong Joon-ho, the acclaimed director of ‘Parasite’, is set to return with the adaptation of ‘Mickey17’, scheduled for release in January. This quirky sci-fi film, featuring Robert Pattinson of ‘The Batman’ fame, is produced by Warner Bros. and will debut around the Korean New Year. Despite the recent trailer, many remain unclear about the source material for ‘Mickey17’.
This upcoming film represents a return to the science fiction genre for Joon-ho, who previously adapted ‘Snowpiercer’, which was based on the graphic novel ‘Le Transperceneige/The Escape’. In contrast, ‘Mickey17’ is derived from Edward Ashton’s 2022 novel, ‘Mickey7’. The difference in titles raises questions about the story being told in both formats.
Ashton co-wrote the screenplay for ‘Mickey17’, which follows the protagonist Mickey, a disposable worker, or ‘Expendable,’ on a perilous mission to help colonize the ice planet Niflheim. The twist is that when Mickey dies, he regenerates in a new body, retaining most of his memories. After his sixth death, Mickey realizes the true nature of his role. The story takes a turn when Mickey7 is presumed dead during a mission, leading to the creation of Mickey8. The problem arises when Mickey7 is still alive, resulting in two versions of Mickey existing simultaneously. If discovered, both could face dire consequences, prompting Mickey7 to hide his identity.
Image Courtesy: IMDb
As conditions worsen in Niflheim, Mickey7 must act to save both himself and the remaining humans. With Ashton involved in the screenplay, the adaptation closely follows the novel’s narrative while slightly altering the character dynamics. Instead of portraying eight Mickeys, Pattinson will take on the challenge of playing eighteen variations, infusing the story with humour and lightness.
‘Mickey17’ is set to hit theatres on 31st January 2025, showcasing Joon-ho’s signature blend of wit and emotional depth.
–Farheen Ali