Mickey 17actor Tim Key recently opened up about his experience working with acclaimed director Bong Joon-ho on the set of his highly anticipated sci-fi film. As an adaptation Edward Ashton’s novelMickey7, the film stars Robert Pattinson as Mickey Barnes, an “expendable” worker tasked with life-threatening missions on an icy alien planet. Barnes, who regenerates after each death, faces his toughest situation yet when he encounters one of his supposedly dead iterations.Mickey 17s castalso features Naomi Ackie, Steven Yeun, Toni Collette, and Mark Ruffalo, and is set to release July 28, 2025.
In an interview withScreen Rant’s Tatiana Hullender at Sundance,Key provided a behind-the-scenes glimpse into Bong Joon-Ho’s filmmaking processfor the upcoming sci-fi dark comedy. The comedian, actor, and writer recently co-wrote and starred inThe Ballad of Wallis Island, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival this year. Although Key plays a minor role in Bong Joon-ho’s latest project, he had the opportunity to work with the Oscar-winningParasitedirector, describing a uniquely memorable experience on the set ofMickey 17. He shared the following:
I don’t know anything [either]! I mean, it’s absolutely amazing when you get asked to do something like that.
I remember taking the phone call, because I loveParasite, I was like ‘That is insane.’ I rememberhaving a nice breakfast with Bong and his producer, and he wanted me on it! That’s insane. I mean, it’s not a very big part; it’s a small part.
But it’s a real thrill to work with him, seeing how he works on set. Even seeing your sheets each day; the call sheet with your lines for that day. In his [movie],it comes as a little comic book, whereevery scene has a little cartoonof what it’s going to be. That’s how he works;he’s got a kind of storyboard, which is also the script, so you can go through that and make it [happen].
What Key’s Insight Into Bong Joon-Ho’s Mickey 17 Means
The Art Behind The Director’s Storyboard
Mickey 17continuesBong Joon-ho’s tradition of crafting filmswith an unparalleled level of detail, thanks to his meticulous storyboarding process. Bong first introduced this approach withParasite, where his storyboards—later released as a graphic novel—show how closely the finished film adheres to his initial vision. With every shot and piece of dialogue mapped before filming even begins,Joon-ho’s storyboards effectively double as a visual script, giving the cast and crew a clear understanding of the film’s tone and structure.
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The comic book-like process of Bong Joon-ho’s filmmakingalso reflects his strong affinity for adaptations. Edward Ashton’sMickey7marks the second novel that Bong has brought to the big screen. In 2013, Bong made a fierce adaptation of the French graphic novelLe Transperceneigein his post-apocalyptic action filmSnowpiercer,starring Chris Evans. BothSnowpiercerandMickey 17delve into existential and social dilemmas where Bong’s detailed planning not only brings these high-concept narratives to life, but also ensures a seamless blend of dark comedy, philosophical depth, and imaginative worldbuilding.
A Sci-Fi Vision That Only Bong Joon-Ho Could Deliver
Tim Key’s excitement about working with Bong Joon-ho only heightens theanticipation forMickey 17. Bong’s storyboard process reflects the precision and artistry that has continued to define his work, from the haunting shadows ofParasiteto the surreal, dystopian landscapes ofSnowpiercer. He has consistently delivered visually stunning and narratively rich experiences, and his latest sci-fi dark comedy appears to be another thought-provoking spectacle. With its star-studded cast, high-concept premise, and Bong’s direction,Mickey 17is set to be an extraterrestrial adventure unlike any other.
Mickey 17
Cast
Mickey 17 is a science fiction film following Mickey Barnes, who faces an unusual employment situation with his job demanding a life-threatening level of commitment. The narrative explores themes of sacrifice and survival as Mickey navigates the complex challenges posed by his unique professional obligations.
