In 2015, sci-fi author Andy Weir’s debut novel, The Martian, was adapted into what would become a hit film starring Matt Damon. Fast-forward to 2026, when his novel Project Hail Mary is also hitting the big screen. Fans of Weir’s writing won’t be disappointed in this adaptation, either. Early reviews are in, many of them calling it a masterpiece. Also heavily noted is how it is, essentially, a one-man show.

Starring Ryan Gosling, Project Hail Mary details the past and present of science teacher Ryland Grace (Gosling), who wakes up on a spaceship light years from home with no recollection of who he is or how he got there. As his memory returns, he begins to uncover his mission: Solve the riddle of the mysterious substance causing the sun to die out. He must call on his scientific knowledge and unorthodox ideas to save everything on Earth from extinction…but an unexpected friendship means he may not have to do it alone.

At Comic Con in 2025, Gosling unveiled the first five minutes of the film and spoke about how he related to Grace’s journey.

“I connected to his reluctance,” he said. “Aside from the fact he has a doctorate in molecular biology, he’s an ordinary person in an extraordinary situation. He reacts to a lot of things the way I might or a lot of us might. He’s terrified appropriately of the task at hand. He’s somebody who gave up on himself on Earth, and he’s given an opportunity to believe in himself again. It’s inspiring to go through this journey with him because he somehow finds the courage to put one foot in front of the other and keep going.”

Jazz Tangcay called it “masterful and so beautifully done. A truly heartwarming story of humanity and friendship. A superb performance from Ryan Gosling – a career best. Greig Fraser’s cinematography is exquisite to perfection.”

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