Mickey 17 generated significant pre-release buzz, despite experiencing delays en route to its theatrical release. Fans were eagerly anticipating Bong Joon Ho’s follow-up to his Oscar-winning film Parasite, particularly since it was a sci-fi story featuring multiple versions of Robert Pattinson. However, upon its release on March 7, audiences and critics were surprised by a film that, although having some enjoyable elements, ultimately felt weighed down by political metaphor.

The film’s box office performance was also underwhelming. Following Mickey 17‘s lackluster opening weekend, Variety reported that the film had earned $24 million overseas and over $50 million globally, a decent start for an original film in the current theatrical landscape, but not enough to turn a profit due to its high production costs. The trade publication praised the film’s “impressive launch for a fresh, offbeat space odyssey,” but noted that its oversized budget ($118 million, plus $80 million on marketing) meant it needed to earn around $275 million to $300 million globally to break even.

According to Box Office Mojo, the film’s current worldwide total stands at just over $90 million, which, although not bad for a quirky sci-fi film, is insufficient to recoup the expenses incurred. It’s not surprising, then, that rumors have begun circulating that Mickey 17 will soon arrive on streaming platforms, with March 25 being mentioned as a possible release date. While Warner Bros. has not responded to io9’s inquiry, movie fans have noticed a trend of underperforming theatrical releases being made available on streaming services sooner rather than later, as seen with Lionsgate’s Borderlands, which arrived on digital platforms just three weeks after its theatrical release.

Mickey 17 may yet find more success as an at-home hit, potentially tipping the budget scales in its favor. Alternatively, readers may prefer to explore Edward Ashton’s excellent source-material novel, Mickey7, released in 2022, which has a sequel titled Antimatter Blues. The book offers a gripping, wryly funny sci-fi mystery without the political undertones present in the film, allowing readers to imagine the main character’s voice as they see fit, rather than being tied to Robert Pattinson’s portrayal in Mickey17.

For more io9 news, check out the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek release dates, as well as what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.