Fayetteville film lovers, mark your calendars—an electrifying cinematic event is coming your way. The Cameo Art House Theatre is set to welcome Mickey 17, the highly anticipated new film from Academy Award-winning director Bong Joon Ho (Parasite), on March 7.
Starring Robert Pattinson, Naomi Ackie, Steven Yeun, Toni Collette, and Mark Ruffalo, Mickey 17 is based on Edward Ashton’s novel Mickey7 and delves into the mind-bending world of space exploration, human expendability, and corporate control.
The story follows Mickey Barnes (Pattinson), a low-level worker assigned to an interstellar colony mission. His job is unlike any other—he is an “expendable,” a worker whose consciousness is transferred to a new body every time he dies. As Mickey starts questioning the ethics and purpose of his existence, he uncovers secrets that could change everything.
Bong Joon Ho, known for his genre-bending storytelling and sharp social commentary, directs and co-writes the screenplay, promising another visually stunning and thought-provoking experience. The South Korean filmmaker has been a dominant force in modern cinema, blending social critique with thrilling narratives.
His 2019 film Parasite made history by becoming the first non-English language film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture. Bong has also helmed critically acclaimed films such as Snowpiercer (2013), Okja (2017), and Memories of Murder (2003). His unique ability to seamlessly mix genres, from dark comedy to horror and science fiction, has solidified his reputation as one of the most innovative directors of his generation.
Mickey 17 is particularly significant as it marks Bong’s return to science fiction, a genre in which he has previously excelled with Snowpiercer. This film not only explores the implications of human expendability and cloning but also raises deep philosophical questions about identity, labor, and corporate control in an increasingly technological world.
Given Bong’s track record of intertwining social issues with compelling narratives, Mickey 17 is expected to provoke thought and discussion long after the credits roll. With stunning visuals and a gripping storyline, it has the potential to redefine modern sci-fi cinema.
For those who love science fiction with humor, satire, and imagination, Mickey 17 stands among some of the most memorable sci-fi comedies that have entertained audiences over the years.
Some of my favorites in the genre include:
• Spaceballs (1987) – A hilarious parody of Star Wars, Mel Brooks’ sci-fi comedy follows the misadventures of Lone Starr and his sidekick Barf as they attempt to save Princess Vespa from the evil Dark Helmet.
• Back to the Future (1985) – This classic time-travel adventure sees teenager Marty McFly accidentally transported to 1955, where he must ensure his parents fall in love or risk erasing his own existence.
• Short Circuit (1986) – A lovable military robot named Number 5 gains self-awareness after being struck by lightning and goes on the run, pursued by the government that wants him back.
• Weird Science (1985) – Two teenage nerds accidentally create the perfect woman using a computer, leading to a series of wild and comedic misadventures.
• Ghostbusters (1984) – A group of eccentric scientists start a ghost-hunting business in New York City, battling supernatural threats with their proton packs and signature wit.
• Men In Black (1997) – Secret agents J and K protect Earth from extraterrestrial threats while keeping the public unaware of the universe’s hidden alien population.
• Her (2013) – A thought-provoking and emotional sci-fi romance about a lonely man who develops a deep connection with his AI operating system, voiced by Scarlett Johansson.
• The Truman Show (1998) – Jim Carrey stars as Truman Burbank, a man who slowly realizes his entire life has been a reality TV show, leading to existential and comedic dilemmas.
• The Fifth Element (1997) – A visually stunning, action-packed sci-fi film where a cab driver (Bruce Willis) must protect a mysterious woman who holds the key to saving humanity.
• Everything Everywhere All At Once (2022) – A mind-bending multiverse adventure that blends action, comedy, and philosophy as an ordinary woman discovers she has the power to exist across infinite realities.
With a runtime of 2 hours and 19 minutes, Mickey 17 is rated R and is expected to deliver a thrilling blend of suspense, dark humor, and philosophical depth.
Don’t miss your chance to see Mickey 17 on the big screen at the Cameo Art House Theatre.

(Photo courtesy of Cameo Art House Theatre)