Project Hail Mary takes a unique approach to the science fiction genre with a blend of science, survival and unexpected friendship that keeps the audience hooked from start to finish. Based on the novel by Andy Weir, directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller bring this world to the screen shockingly without the use of green or blue screens instead using physical sets and lighting tricks. It creates a world that feels both intelligent and very human.
The film follows Ryland Grace, a lone astronaut who wakes up deep in space with no memory of who he is or why he’s there. As the film progresses, his memories begin to return, and he realizes his crew didn’t survive the trip, and he is humanity’s last hope to stop a deathly threat to Earth. Ryan Gosling stars in his 10th feature film as Grace, balancing confusion, fear, determination and love in a way that keeps the audience engaged and curious.
As the film begins it establishes an isolated quiet atmosphere on the ship. It does this through shots deep in space and deep silence in the area. As Grace begins to regain his memories he begins to understand his purpose of being there. He also meets Rocky, who begins as a comic relief character but slowly begins to build a close connection with Grace. Grace begins to become a friend to Rocky and they soon begin to live with each other. Through one of their scenes Rocky finds out after the mission Grace won’t have enough astrophage to get home. Rocky says he has enough to get Grace home and this scene is crucial to the film because it shows that Rocky’s more than just a comic relief character as a character who has true meaning behind him and truly cares about Grace.
The character’s qualities are revealed gradually, with Grace and Rocky’s transformations being the most significant, where Grace goes from confused and somewhat self centered to a determined problem solver who is willing to sacrifice his life for the benefit of humanity, as well as Rocky who goes from speaking his native language and also losing everyone on his ship. To slowly learn how to communicate with Grace and being able to make human interaction and grow as a species.
The ending works out beneficial to both characters and is very powerful in its themes of sacrifice, cooperation and resilience. It delivers after such an emotional roller coaster with a very satisfying resolution.
Overall, Project Hail Mary is worth the watch because of its engaging storyline, emotional performances and unique take on exploration of space and humanity. Throughout its 2 hour, 37 minute runtime the film takes you on a journey not only in space but also self discovery, tension, emotion, and intelligence into a memorable great movie. Already grossing over $500 million and with a 4.3 out of 5 star rating on Letterboxd, Project Hail Mary is on its way to being a future staple in the genre!
by SAMUEL DALMAU
