Imagine you wake up, alone in space, unsure of why you’re there. Over time, you remember your mission: to travel to a far-off star system and collect information necessary to prevent Earth’s imminent demise. This mission isn’t one you will return from, and finding a hope for humanity is not guaranteed. That’s at the center of Project Hail Mary.
While there have been many space films of the past half-century, I truly believe Project Hail Mary will be amongst the greats. The novel that the movie is based on was written by Andy Weir, who also wrote another incredible sci-fi book that was adapted for the big screen: The Martian. Both films share the otherworldly nature that is integral to films with cosmic subject matter, but I would say The Martian is far more grounded than Project Hail Mary.
As Ryland Grace, Ryan Gosling portrays his role with emotion and wittiness, just enough to feel authentic. Additionally, the nonlinear narrative utilized allows the audience to witness both Grace’s harrowing journey among the stars, as well as the events leading up to his departure. The dichotomy of discovery and defeat present in the film’s storyline is masterfully executed and emotionally powerful.
While I do not want to spoil too much of the film, as I highly advise anyone who hasn’t seen it to do so, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the true star of the film: Rocky. And no, I don’t mean Sylvester Stallone’s famous boxing role. Rocky is an adamantine extraterrestrial being that Grace comes in contact with during his mission. Honestly, it always shocks me how films are in some ways better at making the audience feel emotion for an inhuman character rather than a human one. The personality given to this character in both visual and vocal aspects is beyond incredible.
This is one of those films that will stay in your head long after you watch it. Not because you are left with a cliffhanger or to ponder some philosophical question, but because its visuals and storytelling invoke a sense of wonder within us.
I rate it a 9.5/10.