The Filmscape Reverie

By: Maria Cieslarczyk

Warning: Spoilers ahead!

Hello NASA? Yes, I would like to please apply to be an astronaut and go to outer space. Just kidding…although 10-year-old Maria would have convinced you otherwise.

I remember sitting in my advanced science courses and daydreaming of what it’d be like to see Earth from across an ocean of stars and comets. The topic of deep space is sensitive and beautiful to me because it allows me to find gratitude in the mundane. As a creative and as someone who deeply appreciates science and technology, it also allows me to yearn for the possibility of “more,” of greater purpose, and of adventures beyond my wildest imagination. What IS out there, and how can humanity make a bold difference as space citizens?

So, if Ryan Gosling’s character, Dr. Ryland Grace, in the top-rated film Project Hail Mary (2026), would have been presented this opportunity to travel to outer space, he would have laughed and walked away… at first. 

Starring Ken himself, this sci-fi film directed by Christopher Miller and Phil Lord, centers on a middle school science teacher who finds himself on an incredible mission to save Earth from a dangerous sun-dimming microbe (that will ultimately freeze our planet). Along the way, he teams up with his new alien companion, Rocky, who is on a mission of his own to also save his planet from extinction. It is based on the best-selling novel by Andy Weir, and has been a box office success since its release a few weeks ago.

Because of his PhD background in molecular biology, Dr. Grace is recruited by Eva Stratt of the Petrova Task Force, whose mission is to save Earth from the deadly microbe killing stars…including the sun itself. Their mission is called Project Hail Mary. Dr. Grace then finds himself in a deadly predicament as he is sent against his will to outer space…finding himself all alone, and lightyears away from Earth.

The characterization in this film is impeccable! I love the theme of being a “forced hero.” A lot of the time in the media, we’re presented with a main character who has trained all his or her life to be the “chosen one.” Even if these MCs are reluctant at first, they eventually put on a brave front and face the issue on-hand with poise. This film is refreshing – with good heart AND good humor – because Dr. Grace absolutely refuses to accept his mission, even having to be forced to get on that spaceship by getting knocked out! It makes me feel pity for him, but it is also a realistic depiction of how most people would react to having the weight of the world – quite literally – on your shoulders. The film is lovely because it shows the importance of not having a choice sometimes, but finding courage and perseverance along the way anyway.

The plot really blossoms when Rocky enters the scene! A five-limbed creature with no face, he is made of rocks and steals the show with his charm, good heart, and intelligence. Dr. Grace and Rocky’s friendship blooms as they learn to communicate and work together to save both of their planets. 

I love this theme of natural curiosity and friendship. Humans are inherently social beings and we crave connection. So it is such a sweet moment when the audience recognizes Dr. Grace’s adoration and respect for Rocky, especially as he has always been a lonely person and considered an outsider on Earth. Dr. Grace never had a lot of people he loved in his life so finding and befriending Rocky was the best thing to have ever happened to him.

You could also acknowledge both of their sacrifices. As viewers, it’s easy to want BOTH of them to succeed for the sake of their planets. They have a lot of inter-species teamwork, and it works out for the best! Spoiler: towards the end of the movie, Dr. Grace gives up everything- including his return journey to Earth – to find Rocky again and warn him that his ship will not make it back home, at least not without help. This sacrifice proves that he’d do anything to be with the creature that makes him feel joyful and appreciated…and also saves Rocky’s entire planet by doing this. It makes me reflect on all the people I would happily risk my life for if it meant they’d survive and be safe. 

Lastly, the theme of outer space – and what it means to ALL of us – is heavily portrayed in the film. I dream of better things ahead – more peace, more love, more acceptance, and more teamwork. I think Project Hail Mary represents all of these wishes by showing how an ordinary person – and an unlikely friend – can make a big difference. 

It makes me want to ask…what does outer space mean to you? Fly on, dreamers. Project Hail Mary is playing in theaters everywhere now!