Podcast Title: The Big Picture
Host/Author: The Ringer
Episode: ‘Mickey 17’ and the Bong Joon-ho Movie Rankings
Release Date: March 10, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of The Big Picture, hosts Sean Fenasey and Amanda Dobbins delve into the newly released film Mickey 17, Bong Joon-ho's highly anticipated follow-up to his Oscar-winning hit Parasite. The conversation seamlessly transitions into a comprehensive ranking of Bong Joon-ho's filmography, exploring the evolution of his directorial style, thematic preoccupations, and the reception of his various works.

Discussion on Mickey 17

[05:24] Sean introduces Mickey 17, highlighting it as Bong Joon-ho’s eighth feature film. He describes the film as a "sci-fi comedy cloning tale" set in 2051, where the protagonist, Mickey, volunteers to be repeatedly cloned and 3D-printed to serve as a test subject for an expedition to colonize the ice world Niflheim.

Amanda’s Initial Reaction
[06:46] Amanda expresses mixed feelings, appreciating the film’s ambition but feeling disconnected:
"I really liked it and didn't get it and don't care. Does that make any sense?"

Sean’s Analysis
[07:09] Sean commends Robert Pattinson’s performance, likening it to a blend of Buster Keaton and Jim Carrey, emphasizing the film's unique tone that oscillates between slapstick humor and serious political commentary:
"Robert Pattinson is doing a kind of like Buster Keaton slash Jim Carrey-esque physical performance."

Amanda’s Perspective
[07:56] Amanda praises Pattinson’s versatility and the film’s world-building but critiques the tonal inconsistencies, especially the integration of political themes with personal narratives:
"He is the reason to see the movie. I loved it. ... But my hesitance is like, it feels like it is an on level playing field. Because his bar is higher."

Themes and Tone
[09:18] The hosts discuss the movie’s exploration of self-identity through multiple versions of Mickey, juxtaposed with a broad political metaphor criticizing megachurches and corporate exploitation. Sean compares the film’s tonal clashes to works by Terry Gilliam and Paul Verhoeven:
"This movie is not really very serious. It's very daffy."

Performance Highlights
[12:44] Sean highlights standout performances, particularly Pattinson’s physical comedy and Damien Bong’s creature design, while expressing reservations about Mark Ruffalo’s over-the-top antagonist portrayal:
"Toni Collette is very clearly, like even the kind of speech pattern, you know, it's not quite as good as Sebastian Stan's remake."

Conclusion on Mickey 17
[17:15] The conversation wraps up with a critical yet appreciative take on the film’s ambition and execution, acknowledging its flaws while celebrating its innovative aspects:
"It’s a very funny one. ... But it gets bogged down in, like, the other noisier stuff around it at times."

Analyzing Bong Joon-ho’s Directorial Style

Comparative Analysis
[55:37] Sean and Amanda juxtapose Bong Joon-ho’s work with other auteurs like Peter Jackson and David Fincher, noting Bong’s ability to blend genre conventions with deep thematic content:
"He does not get bogged down in the tropes. He doesn't feel like he has to fulfill the formulaic expectation."

Genre and Metaphor
[55:35] Amanda emphasizes Bong’s mastery in using genre as a metaphorical tool, allowing him to infuse social and political commentary seamlessly into his narratives:
"He understands that genre can contain ideas. ... but like, he is not willing, he's there for the big ideas and not just for like the gross out."

Political Undertones
[53:37] The hosts discuss how Bong infuses his films with political and ethical considerations without being overtly preachy, maintaining a balance between storytelling and commentary:
"I think it’s very easy to say, too, that Marshall and the...evil leadership figures in all of his films are not just their Western analogues."

Ranking Bong Joon-ho’s Films

Sean and Amanda embark on ranking Bong Joon-ho’s films, debating the merits and placing them within a hierarchy based on personal preference, thematic depth, and execution.

1. Parasite
   [72:21] Recognized unanimously for its groundbreaking narrative and social commentary, Parasite stands at the top of the list as a pinnacle of modern cinema.

2. Memories of Murder
   [61:59] Cited for its influential storytelling and intricate character development, this film solidifies its place as a masterpiece in the thriller genre.

3. The Host
   [63:26] Praised for its creature design and integration of socio-political themes, The Host earns a high ranking despite some tonal inconsistencies.

4. Mother
   [66:51] Appreciated for its emotional depth and complex character relationships, Mother is lauded for its strong narrative and impactful conclusion.

5. Snowpiercer
   [62:53] Noted for its propulsive storytelling and genre-blending action sequences, Snowpiercer receives a solid ranking for its ambitious scope.

6. Okja
   [62:48] While admired for its creature design and thematic exploration, Okja is placed slightly lower due to perceived lack of nuance compared to other Bong films.

7. Mickey 17
   [05:24] Positioned as the seventh entry, Mickey 17 is acknowledged for its ambition and Pattinson’s performance but critiqued for its tonal mishmashes and overextended political metaphors.

8. Barking Dogs Never Bite
   [59:14] Bong’s early work is recognized for its comedic elements and foundational role in shaping his directorial voice, albeit ranked lower in the spectrum of his mature films.

Notable Quote during Ranking:
Sean: "Neither of these movies are bad. That's not what I'm saying."
Amanda: "No one is saying that. We did a whole thing at the top about this is one of our great working filmmakers."

Closing Thoughts and Upcoming Topics

As the episode draws to a close, Sean and Amanda reflect on the intricacies of Bong Joon-ho’s filmography and the challenges of balancing personal taste with critical acclaim. They hint at future discussions, including a potential deep dive into Cate Blanchett’s illustrious career and the continued exploration of international cinema.

Upcoming Discussions:

• Cate Blanchett’s Hall of Fame: An in-depth exploration of Blanchett’s diverse roles and her impact on the film industry.
• Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Rankings: Revisiting these epic sagas to contextualize Bong Joon-ho’s work within broader fantasy landscapes.

Final Notable Quotes:
Sean: "He loves and respects genre... but he takes them and bends them and molds them to his own design."
Amanda: "I think that he thinks that... we are in hell, but kids, animals, and pure souls still exist among us, and we need to cherish all of them."

The hosts sign off with enthusiasm for future episodes, promising continued insightful conversations about pivotal films and industry trends.

Conclusion

This episode of The Big Picture offers a thorough examination of Mickey 17 and Bong Joon-ho’s body of work, blending critical analysis with personal perspectives. Sean Fenasey and Amanda Dobbins provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of Bong’s directorial prowess, the thematic layers within his films, and the ongoing dialogue surrounding his contributions to modern cinema.