‘Project Hail Mary’ First Reactions: Ryan Gosling Is a ‘Shining Star’ in Christopher Miller and Phil Lord’s ‘Must-See Space Odyssey’

The cosmos of cinematic anticipation has just received a dazzling new star. Phil Lord and Christopher Miller’s highly anticipated sci-fi comedy, “Project Hail Mary,” has officially entered the orbit of film critics, with early screenings igniting a fervent buzz that positions the film as not just a must-see space odyssey, but a serious contender for major awards in the coming Oscar season. Set for a March 20 release, the adaptation of Andy Weir’s beloved novel is already being hailed as a groundbreaking achievement, blending audacious humor with profound human drama against a backdrop of breathtaking cosmic stakes.

For discerning audiences and industry observers alike, the names Phil Lord and Christopher Miller evoke a singular brand of inventive storytelling. Known for their ability to imbue animation and live-action projects with a unique blend of wit, heart, and visual innovation – from the meta-humor of “The Lego Movie” and “21 Jump Street” to the groundbreaking animation of “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” – their latest venture was always destined to be more than just another sci-fi flick. With “Project Hail Mary,” they appear to have once again defied expectations, crafting a narrative that critics are calling their most ambitious and accomplished work to date. This film marks a pivotal moment for the directing duo, challenging them to translate Weir’s intricate scientific narrative and character-driven humor into a visually stunning and emotionally resonant cinematic experience. Their signature touch, which often sees them balancing high-concept premises with deeply relatable human experiences, seems to be fully realized here, creating a film that is both intellectually stimulating and profoundly entertaining. Their unique approach often involves deconstructing genre tropes while simultaneously celebrating them, a method that has consistently resonated with both critics and mass audiences, promising a fresh take on the space epic.

At the heart of this cosmic journey is Ryan Gosling, whose performance as Ryland Grace is garnering widespread acclaim. Gosling, an actor celebrated for his versatile range from the stoic intensity of “Drive” and the romantic melancholy of “La La Land” to the self-aware charm of “Barbie,” brings a compelling blend of vulnerability and unexpected heroism to the role. Film critic Eric Marchen, in a glowing review shared on X, declared “Project Hail Mary” to be “the first great blockbuster of 2026,” specifically praising Gosling’s “stellar performance” as an anchor for the “out-of-this-world cinematography from Greig Fraser.” Marchen’s enthusiasm was palpable, exclaiming, “This movie ROCKS!” The sentiment is echoed by others who see Gosling not just performing, but embodying a character who is profoundly human despite his extraordinary circumstances. His ability to convey both intellectual prowess and a deep-seated relatability is proving to be a cornerstone of the film’s success, drawing audiences into the high-stakes personal and intergalactic drama. His nuanced portrayal captures the essence of a reluctant hero, making the grand scientific endeavors feel intensely personal.

Gosling himself offered insight into his connection with the character of Ryland Grace during Comic Con 2025, where he, alongside Miller, Lord, and screenwriter Drew Goddard, unveiled the film’s captivating first five minutes. “I connected to his reluctance,” Gosling shared, highlighting Grace’s initial hesitancy and human frailty. “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.” This deep understanding of Grace’s character, as an everyman thrust into an impossible mission, allows Gosling to craft a portrayal that resonates deeply, particularly for a female audience that values authenticity and emotional depth in storytelling. His performance explores themes of self-doubt, resilience, and the quiet courage found in believing in oneself again – a journey that Gosling describes as “inspiring.” He added, “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.” This nuanced approach to heroism, rooted in internal struggle and persistent effort, aligns perfectly with the film’s broader message of human perseverance and the discovery of inner strength when faced with overwhelming odds.

Adding another layer of profound emotional depth to the ensemble is Sandra Hüller, whose role is already being highlighted as the “tender heart” of the film. Hüller, an actress who has captivated global audiences with her nuanced and powerful performances in critically acclaimed films like “Toni Erdmann” and the Oscar-winning “Anatomy of a Fall,” brings a gravitas and delicate humanity that elevates the narrative beyond pure spectacle. While her specific character details are kept under wraps, TV host Jeff Conway, writing on X, praised the film as “A successfully sophisticated blend of humor, sci-fi, drama and suspense,” and singled out Hüller, stating she “is the tender heart of this beautiful film.” Her involvement signals a commitment to character-driven storytelling, ensuring that even amidst cosmic threats, the emotional core remains vibrantly human. Hüller’s presence promises a performance that is both intellectually sharp and emotionally resonant, grounding the expansive sci-fi elements in relatable human experience. Alongside Hüller and Gosling, the film boasts a talented supporting cast including Milana Vayntrub, Ken Leung, Liz Kingsman, and James Ortiz, each contributing to what promises to be a rich tapestry of characters navigating humanity’s most desperate hour, highlighting the importance of collective effort and diverse perspectives in crisis.

The initial wave of critical reactions paints a picture of a film that is both exhilarating and deeply moving. Adriano Caporusso, another prominent critic on X, lauded “PROJECT HAIL MARY” for its unique blend of elements, noting that Lord & Miller’s latest “plays up a ‘Short Circuit’ bromance to an hysterical extreme while simultaneously delivering a pulse-pounding space epic that brings true humanity to the centrestage, but not without some jaw-dropping visuals alongside.” This specific mention of a “Short Circuit” bromance hints at a dynamic, perhaps unexpected, relationship central to the film’s humor and heart – a signature move for the directing duo who often find comedy in unexpected places, particularly through character interactions. The emphasis on “true humanity” underscores the film’s ability to ground its fantastical premise in relatable emotional experiences, a quality often sought after by audiences looking for more than just visual effects, but for stories that speak to the human condition amidst extraordinary circumstances. The promise of “jaw-dropping visuals” further solidifies the film’s appeal as a comprehensive cinematic event.

Scott Menzel, an entertainment journalist, went as far as to call “Project Hail Mary” a “masterpiece” on X, confidently predicting its status as “a major awards player across the board.” He elaborated, “‘Project Hail Mary’ is an epic cinematic achievement. Phil Lord and Chris Miller somehow manage to raise the bar once again, delivering what is not only their most ambitious film to date, but arguably their most accomplished.” Such high praise from multiple corners suggests a film that excels on multiple fronts – from its innovative direction and compelling performances to its technical execution and profound emotional resonance. The consistent use of terms like “epic” and “masterpiece” from early viewers points to a truly memorable cinematic experience that transcends typical genre boundaries, establishing a new benchmark for what intelligent, entertaining science fiction can achieve. This universal acclaim across diverse critical voices suggests a film with broad appeal and lasting impact.

Even nuanced critiques tend to highlight the film’s strengths. Barry Hertz, a film writer for Globe and Mail, shared some reservations on X, noting a “not quite faster-than-light script with too many endings and one crucial plot point that evaporates, plus a seeming corporate obligation to Amazon’s ROCKY catalogue.” However, these were swiftly overshadowed by what he called “the galaxy-sized charms of Ryan Gosling.” Hertz’s comparison of the film to “INTERSTELLAR without all the ~stuff~” is particularly insightful, suggesting a space epic that is perhaps more streamlined, character-focused, and less burdened by complex scientific exposition or weighty philosophical debates, yet still retains the awe and grandeur of a significant cosmic journey. This perspective suggests that while the film might not be without its minor narrative imperfections, its core appeal – especially Gosling’s magnetic presence – is overwhelmingly powerful. The mention of “Amazon’s ROCKY catalogue” could allude to a specific musical choice or a stylistic homage, indicating a playful nod within the film’s serious sci-fi framework, a characteristic touch of Lord and Miller’s work.

The foundation for this highly acclaimed film lies in Andy Weir’s 2021 novel of the same name. Weir, a master of blending hard science with compelling, character-driven narratives, previously captivated readers and moviegoers with “The Martian,” which became a hugely successful film adaptation. “Project Hail Mary” follows Ryland Grace, a seemingly ordinary school teacher who awakens alone on a spaceship light-years from Earth, plagued by amnesia. As his memory slowly returns, he reconstructs an astonishing mission: to travel across the galaxy to prevent a mysterious entity from causing the sun to black out, threatening all life on Earth. Weir’s novels are renowned for their meticulous scientific detail, problem-solving protagonists, and an underlying current of humor that humanizes even the most dire situations. The challenge for Lord and Miller, along with screenwriter Drew Goddard (who also adapted “The Martian”), was to translate this intricate blend of scientific rigor and emotional accessibility to the big screen without losing its essence. Based on early reactions, they have not only succeeded but perhaps even enhanced the experience, creating a visual and auditory spectacle that complements Weir’s imaginative prose and expands its emotional landscape for a global audience.

The film’s themes resonate deeply, particularly for a contemporary audience. At its core, “Project Hail Mary” explores humanity’s innate drive for survival, the power of connection in isolation, and the profound journey of self-discovery. Ryland Grace’s personal arc – from a man who “gave up on himself on Earth” to one who finds renewed purpose in the face of impossible odds – offers a powerful narrative of resilience and redemption. This journey, propelled by intellect and ingenuity, is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for courage when confronted with the unknown. The film also seems to champion empathy and understanding, as evidenced by the “compassionate story about connection and defying the odds” mentioned by Jeff Conway. In an era where global challenges often feel overwhelming, a story about collective effort and individual bravery in the face of existential threat offers both escapism and inspiration. The blend of sci-fi spectacle with these profound humanistic themes makes “Project Hail Mary” a compelling watch, speaking to universal experiences of hope, fear, and the search for meaning, all while celebrating the power of intellect and emotional resilience, traits highly valued by our discerning audience.

With such overwhelmingly positive early reception, particularly the consistent mention of its awards potential, “Project Hail Mary” is poised to be a significant player in the upcoming awards season. Categories like Best Picture, Best Director for Lord and Miller, Best Actor for Ryan Gosling, and Best Supporting Actress for Sandra Hüller seem well within reach, given the depth of their performances and the directorial ambition. Furthermore, the “out-of-this-world cinematography” by Greig Fraser, an Oscar winner for “Dune,” signals strong prospects for technical awards, including Cinematography, Visual Effects, and Production Design, which are often critical in space epics. The film’s ability to blend high-stakes drama with engaging humor also makes it a strong contender for Best Adapted Screenplay, as Drew Goddard navigates the complexities of Weir’s original work, striking a balance between scientific accuracy and narrative accessibility. The early buzz suggests a film that critics are not just enjoying, but actively campaigning for, seeing it as a benchmark for what contemporary sci-fi cinema can achieve and a strong candidate across multiple prestigious categories.

As the March 20 release date draws nearer, anticipation for “Project Hail Mary” continues to mount. With its stellar creative team, an acclaimed source novel, and a cast delivering what critics are already calling career-defining performances, this film is shaping up to be more than just a blockbuster. It is an event – a cinematic journey promising to blend intellectual curiosity with emotional resonance, wrapped in a visually stunning package. For those eager to embark on a space odyssey that promises both laughter and profound introspection, “Project Hail Mary” is charting a course directly for the stars, and potentially, Oscar glory, offering a timely and inspiring narrative about humanity’s enduring spirit in the face of cosmic challenges.