'Project Hail Mary' Blasts Off as 2026's First Blockbuster

Phil Lord and Christopher Miller's highly anticipated sci-fi film, 'Project Hail Mary,' is generating significant buzz ahead of its March 20, 2026 release. Early reviews from film critics describe it as a "must-see space odyssey" and the "first great blockbuster of 2026," with predictions that it will be a "major awards player." The film is based on Andy Weir's 2021 novel.

Ryan Gosling stars as Ryland Grace, a science teacher who finds himself alone on a spaceship, light-years from Earth, with amnesia. As his memory returns, he uncovers a critical mission to prevent a celestial entity from extinguishing the sun. Critics have praised Gosling's performance, calling it "galaxy-sized," and noted the film's sophisticated mix of humor, drama, and suspense.

Other cast members include Sandra Hüller, Milana Vayntrub, and Ken Leung. At Comic Con 2025, key creatives unveiled the opening minutes, with Gosling expressing his connection to the character's journey of overcoming fear and self-doubt in extraordinary circumstances. The film's visuals and storytelling have been lauded for their ambition and execution.