Warner Bros. Pictures' latest venture, *Mickey 17*, has sparked discussion among industry insiders after its initial screenings suggested the director's version may not resonate as well with audiences as hoped.

Directed by the acclaimed Bong Joon Ho and featuring Robert Pattinson in the lead role, this sci-fi thriller is adapted from Edward Ashton’s novel *Micky7*.

Released in U.S. theaters on March 7, 2025, *Mickey 17* has encountered a rocky start at the box office.

During its opening weekend, the film generated approximately $19.1 million, a notable disappointment considering its hefty production budget of around $118 million (not inclusive of marketing costs).

With predictions suggesting that the film may ultimately lose around $100 million, speculation is rife regarding the studio's future financial trajectory.

While early viewer feedback has been generally favorable—commending Pattinson's performance and Bong Joon Ho’s masterful direction—many critics find it lacking the charm and brilliance that defined Bong's last project, *Parasite*, which earned him an Oscar.

Currently, *Mickey 17* holds a score of 77% on Rotten Tomatoes and a 72 on Metacritic, yet these figures may not translate into box office success.

But why is the film struggling to find its footing? According to a recent report from Puck, early test screenings did not bode well for the movie, prompting concerns within the studio.

Interestingly, it has been revealed that an alternative cut of *Mickey 17* was prepared by Warner Bros., which reportedly tested 10 points higher than the version that ultimately hit theaters.

However, director Bong Joon Ho opted to retain his original vision, regardless of the studio's alternate suggestions.

Detractors within the studio argue that this decision could be contributing to its box office woes.

Industry experts have warned of a rising tide of financial peril for Warner Bros. as it navigates a landscape filled with high-stakes blockbusters that may not deliver expected returns.

With *Mickey 17* trailing considerably behind, the studio's future projects might also be scrutinized closely as they seek to make up for upcoming losses.

As *Mickey 17* continues its run in theaters, all eyes will remain on how this ambitious project ultimately fares, especially in a competitive box office climate where every dollar counts.

Will audiences rally behind it, or will it become another chapter in a string of costly cinematic misfires? Stay tuned, and let's see if Warner Bros. can turn the tide before it's too late!