Project Hail Mary establishes itself as a work of fiction by depicting all the world’s powers working together to find a way to save Earth.

Their hopes rest on the amnesic shoulders of an American eccentric (Ryan Gosling), who should not be mistaken for a Mary Sue, though he essentially is one.

Based on Andy Weir’s 2021 science fiction novel, the protagonist’s problem-solving is fun to watch, the story feels fresh, the friends he made along the way complete the drama, and it earns extra points for not being nostalgia bait. More extra points go to Ryan Gosling and Sandra Hüller for their performances.

Still, the story starts to show cracks when common sense is applied, though common sense is easier to suspend than disbelief.

Watching Project Hail Mary on the biggest IMAX screen with Dolby Atmos is highly recommended.