Weekend Box Office: Project Hail Mary Scores Big Win for Amazon MGM Amazon MGM’s sci-fi film Project Hail Mary achieved its highest opening weekend in the studio’s history, grossing $80.5 million, and secured the best Tomatometer score for any wide release in 2026 with a 95% rating. The film, starring Ryan Gosling, has generated strong critical acclaim, with audiences giving it an A Cinemascore. Analysts suggest that early buzz and confidence in the film’s quality contributed to its success, as it surpassed earlier projections of $50 million. Comparisons to The Martian (2015), which opened to $54.3 million and grossed over $228 million domestically, highlight Hail Mary’s potential. While The Martian eventually earned over $619 million globally, Hail Mary’s $80.5 million opening places it among the top March debuts, surpassing many films that failed to reach $200 million. For context, only one March release between $50-70 million managed to gross over $200 million, and that was Disney’s 2015 Cinderella. The film’s sci-fi premise and family-friendly appeal may help it sustain momentum, especially after Amazon MGM’s recent underperforming releases like Mercy, Melania, and Crime 101. The film’s success also marks a turning point for Amazon MGM, which acquired MGM in 2023. With Hail Mary’s opening, the studio now has a major hit to build on, though its international performance remains crucial. The film added $60 million overseas, bringing its total opening to nearly $141 million. Analysts note that films with a 90%+ Tomatometer score, an A Cinemascore, and a $75-90 million opening, such as Skyfall, Dune: Part Two, and Oppenheimer, have all grossed at least $250 million domestically.#amazon_mgm #ryan_gosling #project_hail_mary #the_martian #disney_pixar
A ‘Hail Mary’ for Earth, Built on Solid Science Andy Weir’s science-driven novel Project Hail Mary, adapted into a film set for theatrical release, explores humanity’s desperate bid to save Earth from a fictional threat. The story follows Ryland Grace, a scientist turned teacher who awakens on a spaceship and forms an unlikely bond with Rocky, an alien from the planet Erid. The book, published in 2021, delves into the challenges of interstellar travel and the fight against a star-eating algae that has infected the sun. The film, starring Ryan Gosling as Dr. Grace, marks the second adaptation of Weir’s work for the big screen, following The Martian in 2015. While the movie captures the essence of the novel, it only scratches the surface of the extensive scientific research Weir conducted to bring the story to life. His attention to detail, rooted in his upbringing as the child of a physicist and an engineer, ensures the narrative remains grounded in realism. Weir discussed the creative process during a panel at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, where he emphasized his commitment to scientific accuracy. “That’s my whole shtick,” he said, addressing an audience of scientists. The adaptation process involved translating complex concepts into a visual medium, balancing technical precision with narrative engagement. The novel’s premise revolves around a hypothetical scenario: what if humanity had access to a mass-conversion fuel—a substance capable of storing vast energy in minimal mass, far more efficient than traditional fuels like gasoline? Weir imagined a future where such technology enables interplanetary colonization, setting the stage for the story’s central conflict.#ryan_gosling #project_hail_mary #andy_weir #rocky #nasa_jpl
Ryan Gosling Talks Project Hail Mary and Reenacts First TV Gig Ryan Gosling reflected on his experiences hosting Saturday Night Live, reenacting a scene from his first television role, and discussing the emotional connection he formed with his alien puppet co-star in Project Hail Mary. The actor, who is set to host the iconic sketch comedy show for the fourth time this weekend, shared insights into the challenges and rewards of the role. He will be joined by musical guest Gorillaz, with details on how to tune in provided in the article. Gosling’s first TV gig, which he reenacted during the interview, marked the beginning of his career in television. The scene, which he described as both nerve-wracking and exhilarating, involved a mix of humor and improvisation. He emphasized the importance of collaboration in such roles, noting how the dynamic between cast members often leads to unexpected creative outcomes. In Project Hail Mary, Gosling’s character develops a unique bond with an alien puppet, a role that required both technical skill and emotional depth. He explained how the puppet’s movements and expressions became integral to the storyline, creating a sense of camaraderie that extended beyond the set. “There’s a kind of trust you build with a puppet,” he said. “Even though it’s not alive, it feels like it has its own personality, and that makes the performance more authentic.” The interview also touched on the broader context of his career, including his return to hosting Saturday Night Live. Gosling, who has hosted the show multiple times, described the experience as a balance of preparation and spontaneity. “Hosting is a mix of rehearsed jokes and moments that happen in real time,” he noted. “It’s a test of your ability to adapt, which is why it’s both challenging and rewarding.#ryan_gosling #project_hail_mary #saturday_night_live #gorillaz #puppet_co_star
Can Project Hail Mary Deliver? Amazon Needs a Hit After String of Flops Amazon MGM faces mounting pressure to deliver a blockbuster hit with its latest film, Project Hail Mary, a $200 million sci-fi epic adapted from Andy Weir’s bestselling novel. The movie, starring Ryan Gosling as a scientist racing to save humanity from extinction, is set to debut on March 20 and aims to become the streaming giant’s biggest theatrical opening ever, targeting $63 million to $65 million in North America. This would surpass the $58 million opening of 2023’s Creed III, which remains the current record. However, the stakes are high for Amazon, which has struggled to translate its dominance in e-commerce into success in the film industry. The studio’s recent slate of theatrical releases has been a mixed bag, with several projects failing to recoup their massive budgets. For example, Luca Guadagnino’s After the Hunt earned just $9 million against an $80 million budget, while the documentary Melania grossed $16 million—impressive for the genre—but fell far short of its $40 million budget. Similarly, the R-rated crime film Crime 101 made $65 million on a $90 million investment. Despite these misfires, Amazon has had some wins, including Creed III’s $276 million gross and Jason Statham’s The Beekeeper, which earned $162 million on a $40 million budget. A sequel to The Beekeeper is planned for 2027. Amazon’s theatrical ambitions have been complicated by its unique business model. Unlike traditional studios, Amazon funds massive marketing campaigns upfront, relying on its vast resources to promote films before they reach streaming platforms. However, industry analysts argue that this approach may not be sustainable. “Every studio operates by the same metrics: A slate of movies has to make money—more income than expenses,” says David A.#amazon #amazon_mgm #ryan_gosling #project_hail_mary #creed_iii
Project Hail Mary Review: Ryan Gosling Soars in Sci-Fi Blockbuster Ryan Gosling delivers a compelling performance as a stranded astronaut in "Project Hail Mary," a sci-fi film that blends thrilling space exploration with emotional depth. The movie, set against the backdrop of a distant star system, follows the protagonist's journey to save humanity from an existential threat. Gosling's portrayal of the character's determination and vulnerability has been praised by critics, who note his ability to balance the film's scientific elements with personal stakes. The film's visual effects and immersive storytelling have also been highlighted as standout features, creating a sense of wonder that aligns with its summer-themed narrative. Stagecoach 2026: Festival Lineup and Dates Announced The Stagecoach Country Music Festival is set to return to the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, from April 24 to 26. The event will feature a lineup of top country artists, including Post Malone, Lainey Wilson, and Cody Johnson. Attendees can expect a weekend filled with live music, line dancing, and barbecue under the desert sun. The festival has become a staple of the country music calendar, drawing fans from across the region to experience the vibrant atmosphere and iconic performances. Just Like Heaven Festival to Feature The Strokes and LCD Soundsystem The Just Like Heaven Festival will return to Pasadena this summer, with a lineup led by The Strokes and LCD Soundsystem. The festival, known for its eclectic mix of indie and alternative music, will also include other notable acts. The event promises to deliver a dynamic musical experience, combining the energy of live performances with the cultural vibrancy of Southern California.#ryan_gosling #project_hail_mary #stagecoach_2026 #just_like_heaven_festival #lollapalooza_2026
Dune: Part Three Trailer Set to Drop Next Week The trailer for Denis Villeneuve’s Dune: Part Three is scheduled to debut next week, with the release tied to nationwide screenings of Project Hail Mary. This development has sparked anticipation about the film’s direction, particularly whether it will remain faithful to Frank Herbert’s Dune: Messiah or expand into the subsequent novel, Children of Dune. Herbert’s Messiah is known for its complex narrative, deliberate pacing, and themes that diverge from the earlier films. The story follows Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet) as he transitions from a messianic figure to a tyrannical ruler, with a tone that emphasizes philosophical and spiritual introspection over the grand spectacle of the first two films. If Villeneuve adheres closely to the source material, the third installment could offer a more subdued, politically charged experience compared to its predecessors. The film’s cast includes Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Florence Pugh, Anya Taylor-Joy, Jason Momoa, Rebecca Ferguson, Josh Brolin, Robert Pattinson, and Nakoa-Wolf Momoa, among others. The movie is set to premiere on December 18, 2026, marking the continuation of Villeneuve’s adaptation of Herbert’s iconic sci-fi saga.#project_hail_mary #timothe_chalamet #denis_villeneuve #frank_herbert #dune_part_three
Project Hail Mary Celebrates the Awe of Discovery Project Hail Mary, set for release on March 20, is a science-fiction film that highlights the joy and excitement of scientific exploration. The story follows Ryland Grace, a schoolteacher played by Ryan Gosling, who awakens on a spaceship to find the other two astronauts have died during the mission. Through flashbacks, the film reveals how Grace was recruited by international scientist Eva Stratt, portrayed by Sandra Huller, to address a solar crisis. Stratt’s team aims to replicate energy particles from Venus to reach a sun in the galaxy that resists dimming, a task that proves challenging. The plot centers on the scientific process, showing how Grace and Stratt’s agent, Carl (Lionel Boyce), work to gather resources and conduct experiments. Their efforts culminate in a breakthrough when they discover the life cycle of the particles, demonstrating the value of perseverance and curiosity. In space, Grace encounters an alien on a similar mission, leading to a collaboration to decode messages and save their respective suns. The film balances humor and wonder, using the alien’s limited vocabulary to create comedic moments while emphasizing the importance of communication. Despite its fictional elements, the movie stays grounded in real science, with concepts like Astrophage particles and new elements explained through logical, Earth-based principles. Grace continues to apply the scientific method to these fictional discoveries, reinforcing the idea that learning is a dynamic and rewarding process. The film also touches on the broader theme of knowledge as a tool for growth, critiquing societal resistance to change and encouraging viewers to embrace discovery. Visually, the space scenes are presented in IMAX format, enhancing the grandeur of the cosmos.#ryan_gosling #project_hail_mary #ryland_grace #eva_stratt #sandra_huller
Project Hail Mary Review – Ryan Gosling Wows in Space Bromance Ryland Grace, a science teacher played by Ryan Gosling, finds himself thrust into a cosmic mission to save humanity in Project Hail Mary, a 2026 sci-fi adventure that blends humor, drama, and thrilling space exploration. Directed by Phil Lord and Chris Miller, the film adapts Andy Weir’s 2021 novel, delivering a story of resilience and unlikely friendship that has been hailed as the standout movie of the year. With its accessible science, heartfelt characters, and sweeping scope, the film captures the spirit of Weir’s work while offering a fresh, emotionally resonant take on the genre. The plot follows Grace, who awakens from an induced coma with no memory of his past. Stranded on a spaceship in a distant solar system, he must piece together his identity through a series of flashbacks. His journey takes a dramatic turn when he is recruited by a mysterious government operative, Eva Stratt, to address a dire threat: an unknown organism called the “astrophage” is devouring the sun’s radiation, risking an apocalyptic ice age. Grace’s expertise in molecular biology makes him the last hope for humanity, but his inexperience and isolation make the mission perilous. As Grace navigates the challenges of space, he encounters Rocky, a towering, spider-like alien with a unique ability to communicate through movement and sound. Their bond evolves from mutual curiosity to a deep, almost familial connection, driven by shared goals and the weight of their respective worlds’ survival. The film’s strength lies in its portrayal of this interstellar friendship, which balances humor and sincerity. Grace’s interactions with Rocky—whether through dancing, fist bumps, or the gradual unlocking of language—highlight the film’s focus on human (and alien) connection.#ryan_gosling #project_hail_mary #phil_lord #andy_weir #chris_miller
Project Hail Mary Rocks Ryan Gosling stars in the new adaptation of Andy Weir’s Project Hail Mary, directed by Phil Lord and Chris Miller, set for release on March 20, 2026. The film follows Ryland Grace, a man who awakens with amnesia on a spaceship light-years from Earth, tasked with saving both his world and an alien planet from a catastrophic threat. The story blends science fiction, humor, and emotional depth, offering a fresh take on the original novel’s premise. The film opens with Grace, portrayed by Gosling, waking up in space with no memory of his past. Through a series of flashbacks, the narrative reveals his life on Earth as a middle school teacher who is recruited by Eva Stratt (Sandra Hüller) to address a dire problem: a mysterious force consuming the sun, threatening Earth’s existence. As Grace navigates his mission, he is joined by an alien named Rocky, a spider-shaped rock creature from a planet facing the same crisis. Together, they embark on a journey to solve the problem, combining human ingenuity with alien intelligence. The screenplay, written by Drew Goddard, mirrors the structure of Weir’s novel, alternating between Grace’s present-day struggles on the spaceship and the events leading to his recruitment. This dual narrative creates a sense of mystery and urgency, as viewers piece together how Grace ended up in space and what happened on Earth. The film balances scientific plausibility with creative storytelling, addressing challenges like the limitations of human space travel through fictional yet logical explanations. Gosling’s performance as Grace is a standout, capturing the character’s initial optimism and growing vulnerability. His humor and wit serve as a coping mechanism for the immense pressure he faces, while his relationship with Rocky evolves from skepticism to mutual respect.#ryan_gosling #project_hail_mary #phil_lord #andy_weir #chris_miller
Project Hail Mary Reviews: What The Critics Are Saying The highly anticipated space adventure Project Hail Mary, directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller and starring Ryan Gosling, has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from critics. The film, which opens on March 20, 2026, follows Gosling’s character, Ryland Grace, a school teacher who awakens on a spaceship light-years from Earth with no memory of how he got there. As his recollections return, he discovers he is part of a mission to prevent a mysterious substance from destroying the sun and threatening Earth. The story centers on his unexpected friendship with an alien, described as a “rocky” being, and the challenges they face to save humanity. With a production budget exceeding $150 million, the film is positioned for a massive box office debut, projected to open between $45 million and $55 million. The movie’s blend of science fiction and human drama has drawn comparisons to classic space epics, while its practical effects and emotional depth have been praised as fresh and engaging. Critics have highlighted Gosling’s performance as a key strength, noting his ability to portray both the vulnerability and determination of his character. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film currently holds a 94% score based on over 70 reviews, signaling strong critical acclaim. Deadline’s Pete Hammond called it “a movie made for Imax,” praising its “entertaining and engaging” approach to science fiction. He emphasized the film’s message about unity in the face of existential threats, stating it “suggests even though we may be worlds apart, in order to save us from ourselves we must band together now more than ever.” Empire magazine awarded the film 4/5 stars, describing it as “a very watchable old-school blockbuster crowd-pleaser.#rottent_tomatoes #ryan_gosling #project_hail_mary #phil_lord #christopher_miller
Project Hail Mary review: Ryan Gosling's space epic is 'a mind-stretching sci-fi' ★★★★☆ Ryan Gosling stars in this ambitious sci-fi film as Ryland Grace, a lone astronaut tasked with saving humanity from extinction. The story follows Grace as he awakens on a vast spaceship hurtling toward a distant star, the only surviving crew member after two others die en route. Struggling to recall his mission, Grace gradually pieces together his role in a project aimed at combating a crisis: alien microbes called "Astrophages" are consuming the sun’s radiation, threatening to render Earth uninhabitable. His goal is to uncover why one star remains unaffected by these microbes and transmit the discovery back to Earth, despite his ship’s limited fuel reserves. The film diverges from typical sci-fi blockbusters by prioritizing intellectual problem-solving over action sequences. Unlike franchises like Star Wars or Avatar, which often hinge on combat or spectacle, Project Hail Mary leans into its protagonist’s scientific expertise. Gosling’s character, Grace, is a laid-back, well-groomed scientist with no personal ties or emotional stakes, which contrasts with films like Interstellar that emphasize personal sacrifice. This approach creates a tone that is both lighthearted and cerebral, blending humor with high-concept science. The narrative gains depth through Grace’s interactions with a second spacecraft, manned by a crab-like alien named Rocky. This alien, played by a puppet with digital enhancements, becomes a key ally as Grace learns to communicate with it through a translation system. Their dynamic adds a layer of camaraderie, transforming the story into an upbeat buddy comedy.#ryan_gosling #project_hail_mary #phil_lord #christopher_miller #rocky
Ryan Gosling teams up with a cute alien to save Earth. It’s great fun Ryan Gosling stars in Project Hail Mary, a science fiction film where he plays a science teacher who must team up with a charming alien to save their planets from an impending ice age. Directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, the movie is an adaptation of Andy Weir’s 2021 novel. While it draws inspiration from several acclaimed space-themed films, its blend of humor, emotional depth, and visual flair makes it a standout entry in the genre. The story follows Ryland Grace, a former molecular biology prodigy turned science teacher, who awakens on a distant star system after being sent on a mission to uncover why this star remains unaffected by a parasitic force devouring other planetary systems. His unlikely partner is Rocky, a boulder-skinned, five-armed alien with a playful demeanor. Together, they embark on a journey to prevent the collapse of their worlds, while flashbacks reveal Grace’s personal motivations for joining the mission. Gosling’s performance is a highlight, balancing wit and vulnerability as he navigates the challenges of interstellar travel and the weight of his mission. The film’s tactile approach to special effects—combining practical sets with subtle CGI—creates a sense of realism that feels refreshing in an era dominated by flashy digital visuals. From the way starlight glints off spacecraft hulls to the soft fluffiness of Gosling’s cardigan, every detail contributes to the film’s immersive quality. Rocky, a digitally enhanced puppet voiced by James Ortiz, adds a unique charm to the narrative. His physicality and expressive movements evoke memories of TARS from Interstellar, while his interactions with Gosling’s character provide both humor and emotional resonance.#ryan_gosling #project_hail_mary #phil_lord #christopher_miller #andy_weir
