Project Hail Mary Movie Review

Andy Weir’s sci-fi novels have proven very popular over the last decade; with The Martian arriving in theatres in 2015 it was only a matter of time until another tale received the big screen treatment. Project Hail Mary is another great effort that falls under the same light-hearted banner.

In the middle of the 21st Century, humanity is threatened with extinction as the sun begins to dim. The culprit is the astrophage, a microscopic organism that has formed a infrared line between our galaxy’s star and Venus. With little time to avert catastrophe, a global coalition brings in Dr Ryland Grace (Ryan Gosling, who also serves as producer) to work on the project. We start the film in his perspective, waking up as the lone survivor on-board the titular vessel. It’s a slow burn in the first act as Grace regains his memories and stumbles across a strange creature named Rocky whose planet is also threatened. From here, the film sticks very close to the source material, seamlessly cutting back and forth between Ryland’s journey and the mission setup on Earth. What makes Project Hail Mary work so well is its inventive presentation; Ryland and Rocky gradually learn to communicate and embark on an intriguing expedition together. Much of this is done non-verbally with some creative movements and gestures. Many sci-fi films set far from home have a downbeat and reflective atmosphere, but Project Hail Mary does the opposite. It’s a quirky and fast-paced narrative that always keeps the main characters pushing towards their goals with plenty of humour to boot. However, the final moments do land abruptly, a last-minute change of heart that felt quite rushed.

Ryan Gosling takes the lead and with some previous experience in 2018’s First Man, he’s well suited to the genre. Ryland Grace is an introverted and socially awkward scientist on terra firma, but when he connects with Rocky, there are many endearing moments that pull you into their partnership. His emotions are understated but memorable, allowing the actor to carry the entire production. On occasion, the protagonist’s kooky lines can feel a little overbearing, but for the most part Project Hail Mary balances tone to a good standard. The film may have a 12A rating, but none of the cast members become irritating or distracting over time. The other human characters are placed in smaller roles and this works to the film’s benefit with the protagonist’s distance from his own kind. Sandra Hüller turns in a strong performance as the leader of the PHM initiative; one major highlight for her is a karaoke session that lifts the team’s spirits at the halfway mark.

Travelling light-years away from Earth, the backdrops of Project Hail Mary are stunning; best experienced on the big screen, the grand celestial views always give off a great sense of scale. The climax is particularly effective as Ryland and Rocky put the final steps of their plan into motion. The cinematography is very consistent throughout the piece. To save time and avoid over explaining, quick cuts often unfold within the spaceships which also enhance the comedic moments. When we exit the airlock, smooth panning shots deliver a beautiful view of planets and vessels alike. A mixture of well-known tracks from The Beatles, Harry Styles and Mercedes Sosa are used to lighten the mood and the core soundtrack by Daniel Pemberton is wonderful. With a combination of sweeping choirs and ethereal notes, the audience is fully immersed in the action while always receiving great build-up to the major set-piece moments. Overall, the look and feel of the novel has translated to the screen beautifully.

In spite of an abrupt ending swerve and a hint of clunky dialogue, Project Hail Mary is a solid adaptation that commits to an uplifting tone. Ryan Gosling’s central performance, his interactions with Rocky and the surrounding visuals are all brilliant. The film is sure to be a real crowd-pleaser throughout its run.

Rating: 4/5 Stars (Great)