Anti-Capitalism ‘Mickey 17’ Set to Lose Millions at Box Office

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Studios shell out millions for director Bong Joon-ho to slam free markets.

In a fresh attack, the Academy Award-winning filmmaker has released “Mickey 17.” For the umpteenth time, Joon-ho critiques capitalism – a theme he previously explored in “The Host,” “Okja,” “Parasite,” and “Snowpiercer.

He resembles M. Night Shyamalan, yet unlike his unexpected plot twists, his movies are notable for their critical focus on private businesses. These films might not consistently be box-office hits, but studios are often eager to invest substantial funds in bringing his ideas to life.

This time, it’ll cost the studio in question plenty.

In a reimagined sci-fi narrative titled “Mickey 17,” Robert Pattinson assumes the role of a selfless volunteer. This character bravely sacrifices his life for corporations, exploring the possibility of extraterrestrial life. Remarkably, after each demise, his consciousness is transferred into subsequent iterations of “Mickey” that are manufactured anew.

According to most reports, it’s a scathing criticism of corporate avarice and irresponsible politicians. Characters portraying these individuals are skillfully played by Mark Ruffalo and Toni Collette.

Joon-ho’s work is intentionally artistic, often following unique narrative paths. While his films may not always be commercial successes domestically, they tend to garner significant profits internationally.

  • “The Host” ($2 million US/$87 global)
  • “Snowpiercer” ($4.5 million US/$82 million global)
  • “Okja” (Netflix release US/$2 million global)
  • “Parasite” ($53 million/$208 million global)

According to Variety, “Mickey 17” has had a quiet debut domestically and abroad. Given its high production cost of $118 million, it looks highly unlikely that Warner Bros. will recoup their investment on this film.

As a passionate cinephile, I’m excitedly anticipating that the movie will rake in approximately $18 million to $20 million domestically and around $20 million to $25 million internationally this weekend. If these figures hold true, it would translate to a global opening of $40 million to $45 million. However, considering it needs to gross around $275 million to $300 million worldwide just to turn a profit, the challenge is definitely on!

Joon-ho sympathizes with the colleagues who helped make his new film possible.

I empathize with the producers and marketing team since I understand their challenging roles, but when I discover an intriguing plot, character, or scenario, I jump straight into making a film about it without considering the potential risks. Perhaps I simply can’t.

Must be nice.

For the time being, he’s insulated from capitalist drawbacks. However, it won’t last forever; his movies must continue to earn back their costs or else production companies will cease providing him unlimited funding.

There’s another path forward for him and fellow storytellers.

Reduce your spending. Follow the footsteps of filmmakers such as Gareth Edwards and “Godzilla Minus One” director Takashi Yamazaki, and discover ways to create impactful work using limited resources.

It’s Capitalism 101, a lesson Joon-ho will learn sooner or later. As well he should.

Let’s seek out more individuals who weave unconventional stories, ones that deviate from traditional intellectual properties. Whether you admire Joon-ho’s anti-capitalist narratives or not, his work is certainly not ordinary or formulaic.

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2025-03-07 22:03