What role does Murk Ruffalo play in Bong Joon-ho's Mickey 17? Explained

Modified Jan 12, 2025 14:34 GMT

A still from the trailer of Mickey 17 (Image via Warner Bros.)

Mickey 17 is an upcoming science fiction black comedy film written, directed, and produced by Bong Joon-ho. The movie is based on Edward Ashton’s 2022 novel Mickey7 and explores themes of survival, identity, and human colonization of an ice planet, Niflheim.

The story follows Mickey Barnes, an "expendable" employee who repeatedly regenerates after dying during dangerous missions. The film stars Robert Pattinson, Naomi Ackie, Steven Yeun, Toni Collette, and Mark Ruffalo. Warner Bros. Studios started filming in August 2022 and finished by December of the same year.

Mark Ruffalo plays Hieronymous Marshall, a central figure in the story. As the commander of the colonizing mission, Ruffalo’s character is a harsh, dictatorial leader driven by ego and control. This role showcases his dark and intense acting prowess, contrasting his previous works.

As per Variety, after premiering at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival in February 2025, Mickey 17 will hit theaters in late February 2025. Actors like Holliday Grainger and Anamaria Vartolomei are also part of the film.

Murk Ruffalo’s character in Bong Joon-ho's Mickey 17

Mark Ruffalo portrays Hieronymous Marshall, a manipulative and authoritarian commander leading the colonizing expedition to Niflheim. His character embodies the archetype of a power-hungry dictator who prioritizes personal ambitions over collective welfare.

Marshall’s interactions with the protagonist, Mickey Barnes, add layers of tension and conflict, as his decisions profoundly affect the mission and its crew.

This role is a significant departure for Ruffalo, who is generally associated with more morally grounded characters. By embracing Marshall’s darker attributes, Ruffalo explores the psyche of a controlling leader with chilling narcissism. His portrayal promises a compelling mix of dominance and menace, heightening the stakes of the narrative.

All about Mickey 17

Mickey 17 explores the existential challenges and ethical dilemmas associated with human cloning during the process of space colonization. The film, based on Edward Ashton's novel, centers on Mickey Barnes, who is rendered "expendable" for the purpose of the mission.

Mickey 17 survives a catastrophic mission after one iteration; however, he is confronted with a conflict with his regenerated successor, Mickey 18.

Known for his work on Parasite and Snowpiercer, Bong Joon-ho possesses a unique ability to balance intricate narratives with visually stunning effects. The film's production was meticulous, with Charles Yu contributing additional literary material to ensure fidelity to the novel's intricate storyline.

The cast, led by Robert Pattinson as Mickey Barnes, includes Naomi Ackie, Steven Yeun, and Toni Collette, boosting the film's appeal. Industry strikes and production delays have changed the film's release schedule, but it will debut worldwide in February 2025.

All about the actor Mark Ruffalo

Mark Ruffalo, born on November 22, 1967, in Kenosha, Wisconsin, is a renowned actor celebrated for his versatile performances across genres. He began his career in the 1990s, gaining recognition for his role in Kenneth Lonergan’s play This Is Our Youth. His breakout film, You Can Count on Me (2000), established him as a skilled actor, earning critical acclaim.

Ruffalo is best known for his portrayal of Bruce Banner/The Hulk in the Marvel Cinematic Universe since 2012. Beyond superhero roles, he has won multiple Academy Awards for movies, including Spotlight (2015) and Foxcatcher (2014).

Ruffalo balances his career with environmental activism and philanthropy.