Plot: What’s it about?
I don’t read as much as I used to. In fact, I suspect a lot of us don’t. We’ve become spoiled by YouTube shorts and TikTok videos that give us short jolts of entertainment. But I do occasionally pick up a book and one that I’d read about a decade ago was The Martian. Written by Andy Weir, it told the story of a man trapped on Mars (hence the name), separated from his crew and his quest to get back home. It’s my favorite book and film of the last decade or so. Given the film’s praise, Weir’s follow-up was Project Hail Mary. I bought it and read it immediately. While I still prefer the former, I was curious to see how it would translate to screen. Adding fuel to the fire of my excitement were the directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller. This duo had helmed a few of my other favorite films with 21 Jump Street and its sequel. For me, the bar was set pretty high. Let’s see if they were able to clear it.
Ryland Grace (Ryan Gosling) is a schoolteacher who finds himself recruited for a mission that could determine the fate of the planet. The Sun is slowly dimming, and scientists have discovered that something is causing the phenomenon. With Earth facing a potential extinction-level event, Grace is sent into space to investigate and hopefully find a solution. It’s not exactly your typical field trip, but then again, most teachers don’t have quite this much on their plate. When Grace awakens aboard the Hail Mary, he soon discovers that he’s alone, millions of miles from Earth, and has little recollection of how he got there. As his memories gradually return, he begins piecing together the purpose of his mission. Things take an unexpected turn when he encounters Rocky, an alien who is dealing with a similar problem in his own corner of the universe. The two form an unlikely friendship and work together to find a way to save their respective planets, though getting there proves to be easier said than done.
Project Hail Mary offers up a mix of science fiction, adventure and humor, with Gosling carrying much of the film on his shoulders. The relationship between Grace and Rocky provides the story with its heart, and while the fate-of-the-world premise isn’t exactly new territory, the film does enough with it to keep things interesting. It’s an entertaining space adventure that manages to balance its scientific elements with a surprisingly touching story about friendship and cooperation. Not many films are able to sustain my interest for two and a half hours; this one did. I’m willing to bet that any fan of the novel, Gosling or the directors will enjoy this one. The film’s box office would suggest that’s correct.
Video: How’s it look?
With the regular 4K edition, it was easier, but now we’ve got this three disc version that ups the ante with an IMAX version, but also the regular 4K and Blu-ray editions as well. First up is the good – it’s flawless. Amazing. Throw any adjective out there you want (in a good way) and it’s that. The film switches between multiple aspect ratios of 2.39:1 and 1.78, but we’ve seen this enough so that we’re accustomed to it. If you already own or have seen the 4K version then this is the same. I assure you Amazon has done nothing to enhance the regular 4K version and all the caveats are intact with detail off the charts, strong contrast and everything else that needs no further explanation.
The real treat with this version (in addition to the cool steelbook packaging) is the third disc that gives us the full IMAX version shown in a 1.43:1 aspect ratio. Of note, this is 4K and not Blu-ray. Add to that, some of the flashback scenes are shown in 2.39:1 giving them a very odd windowboxed effect that’s…different, to be sure. But in terms of actual video quality – we all know the drill – it’s perfect.
Audio: How’s it sound?
In addition to reference-quality video (no matter which version you choose) we’ve also got a Dolby Atmos soundtrack that, quite simply, knocks it out of the park. Unlike other films, this one isn’t “in your face” with the sound. It’s a much more subdued track but still manages to effectively utilize each and every channel in your Atmos setup (or whatever setup you have). Vocals, which are primarily that of Gosling and “Rocky” are spot on perfect. The surrounds are used effectively as well, giving us some very warm, ambient vibes that help heighten the mood (pun intended). In short, it’s a great-sounding track and one that’s sure to please.
Supplements: What are the extras?
- Audio Commentary – Directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller have done some pretty interesting tracks in the past and this one is no different. All of the challenges of the film, the practical use of effects, the adaptation, the cast and everything else are covered. For a track that spans over two and half hours – it’s a decent listen.
- Deleted Scenes – Five total, though given the film’s length (and critical and commercial response) I’d say these aren’t too integral to the film.
- Day 1 Food Paste
- I Think I’m Handling Things Pretty Awesome
- How to Put on a Spacesuit
- You Sleep, I Watch
- Maybe We’re Cousins
- Earth’s Favorite Eridian – The character of “Rocky” is put under the microscope as well as a comparison to him in the book, how he was changed for the film and so forth.
- Amazon Steelbook Extras – In the “I want to be like Criterion” department, we’ve got the ultra cool/modern/hip steelbook packaging with removable slipcover as well as an illustrated booklet with sketches and production photos from the film.
The Bottom Line
There’s no denying that Project Hail Mary is a great film. I personally preferred The Martian (in book and in film form), but that’s not to take anything away from this film. Gosling single-handedly commands this film and for those that have read the novel – you won’t be disappointed. There’s a regular 4K version out there and, for most, that’ll be fine. But if you’re a fan of steelbooks, abstract cover art or just have to have that IMAX version then this one is for you.
