Mickey 17: Bong Joon Ho’s Satirical Sci-Fi Odyssey

<Bong Joon Ho, the acclaimed South Korean filmmaker, has been off the radar since his Oscar-dominating 2019 film, Parasite. The longest gap in his filmography to date was five years ago, when his breakout genre-mashing thriller took on a life of its own and opened new doors for what might come next. Director Bong settled on Mickey 17, his Robert Pattinson-starring adaptation of Edward Ashton’s sci-fi novel Mickey7, heading into major Hollywood studio territory with Warner Bros.

Bong’s Vision for Mickey 17

The film, originally scheduled to arrive in March 2024, was delayed to 2025, reports suggested, due to a creative dispute with the studio over the final cut of the film. However, Bong has now revealed that he has gained final cut on the film, which is unusual for a big-budget Hollywood production. "With Okja and now Mickey 17, I was given the final cut as part of my deal," he explains. "The studio respected my final cut rights."

A Hard-Earned Victory

Bong has faced similar creative battles in the past, most notably with Harvey Weinstein over his first English-language film, Snowpiercer. However, Bong has emerged victorious once again, and is now proud of the final product. "Of course, during the editing process, there are many opinions and many discussions that happen," he continues. "But this film is my cut, and I’m very happy about it. It was a long process, but it was always smooth and respectful."

Robert Pattinson’s Experience

According to Robert Pattinson, who stars in the film, working with Bong was an exhilarating experience. "It’s really cool that a studio has done this film," he says, "and that Bong pushed to have the final cut on it – to make something that does feel incredibly unusual." Get ready for another pure, uncut slice of Bong Joon Ho.

What’s Next for Mickey 17?

Read Empire’s full Mickey 17 feature – speaking to Bong Joon Ho, Robert Pattinson, Steven Yeun and Naomi Ackie about their oddball sci-fi odyssey – in the December 2024 issue, on sale Thursday 24 October. Pre-order a copy online here. Mickey 17 comes to UK cinemas from 31 January.

Conclusion:

Bong Joon Ho’s Mickey 17 is a much-anticipated sci-fi odyssey that promises to be a unique and thrilling experience. Despite facing creative challenges, Bong has emerged victorious, and the film is set to debut in 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• What is Mickey 17 about?
  Mickey 17 is a satirical sci-fi film directed by Bong Joon Ho, starring Robert Pattinson.
• When is Mickey 17 releasing?
  Mickey 17 is scheduled to release in the UK on 31 January 2025.
• Who is starring in Mickey 17?
  Robert Pattinson, Steven Yeun, and Naomi Ackie are starring in the film.
• What is the story about?
  Mickey 17 is a unique and satirical sci-fi odyssey that explores the themes of… (more details to be provided)