Whether it be in high school cliques or college applications, students are often pushed into two categories: creative or analytical, an artist or an engineer. Rarely are the two treated as compatible, but “Project Hail Mary” manages to blend the two into something all audiences can enjoy.
Adapted from Andy Weir’s bestselling novel, the film follows Ryland Grace, a former science teacher who wakes up alone on a spaceship with no memory of who he is or why he’s there. As his memories gradually return, Grace realizes he has been sent on a mission to stop astrophage – a sun-eating bacteria — from killing all life on earth. Using scientific experimentation and the help of an unexpected friend, Grace must piece together a solution to save humanity from extinction.
For many viewers, one of the film’s most compelling aspects was that it maintained a realistic portrayal of science while conveying an out-of-this-world wonder. Freshman Noa Neufeld appreciates how the film shows Grace working on his scientific discoveries through a process of trial and error.
“It wasn’t just this ‘Eureka!’ moment where he would hear a word and (immediately understand what to do),” she said. “Instead, you got to actually see him test all these things, which is so important in science and also funny to watch.”
The film’s attention to STEM problem-solving extends beyond scientific research and into communication, particularly through the way it approaches language development between Grace and his alien companion Rocky.
“Rocky doesn’t have vocal chords or a tongue, so it isn’t physically possible for him to make any of the sounds we can,” Neufeld said. “So, it was really interesting to see how Rocky would talk, and it got me really interested in linguistics and how humans (rely on tonation) to communicate.”
Beyond its scientific and logical depth, “Project Hail Mary” offers something science fiction films don’t always prioritize: a strong sense of artistry and sentimental warmth. Sophomore Ben Blauwkamp notes that the film’s use of visuals and color creates a distinct emotional impact.
“I really liked how they portrayed the space scenes,” he said. “In the scene where Grace is surrounded by all the astrophage, it lights up in this brilliant pinkish- red color, and I find it very calming. It kind of takes (the viewers) away from the whole harsh story about this guy in space who’s fighting for humanity, and gives him a moment to breathe.”
While the movie stands out for its visuals, its soundtrack also plays a major role in shaping the film’s ambience. Through orchestral pieces that utilize crystal organs, glass harmonicas and steel drums, the score emphasizes both the magic and mystery of space exploration. According to sophomore Marie Frank, the movie’s music further amplifies its emotional impact.
“It definitely added to the atmosphere a lot,” she said. “This might sound like an obvious answer, but I feel like (the film) used music or certain instruments to express his awe really well. When Grace entered the Petrova line, the music swelled and showed his wonder towards (being in) space.”
The “Project Hail Mary” resonance with audiences comes from its ability to blend technical ideas with emotional storytelling through character writing, stunning visuals and a striking soundtrack. Especially during a time where people are increasingly placed into boxes of being STEM or art-oriented, a successful film that highlights the value of combining both serves as a reminder of how interconnected those strengths can be.
“I think it’s not very often that we can find media that has accurate science-related topics while also appealing a lot to the emotional side,” Frank said. “And while I don’t know exactly how accurate it is scientifically, I just think that it’s really impressive how the movie was able to balance both aspects while doing each part well.”
