While Mickey 17 is adapted from Edward Ashton’s 2022 novel Mickey7, Ashton’s version is a much more straightforward sci-fi story than Bong’s. In the Korean virtuoso’s hands, this story plays out like an extension of nearly every theme and visual approach he’s used throughout his lengthy career.

Mickey 17” is funny and gory. If you have a weak stomach, or a soft heart, there are going to be some tough scenes for you. If you saw “Parasite,” then you already have some idea of director Bong Joon Ho’s style.

The master of creating layered and deep compositions tells IndieWire why "Mickey 17" required a different approach compared to his previous film.