Amaze. Amaze. Amaze! The epic space adventure “Project Hail Mary” has blasted into theaters with unstoppable momentum, achieving the biggest global opening weekend of the year with an impressive $140.9 million worldwide debut.
The film collected $80.5 million in North America, while international markets added $60.4 million, signaling strong enthusiasm from audiences across the globe. Adapted from the bestselling novel by Andy Weir, the acclaimed author of The Martian, the film is directed by the creative powerhouse duo Phil Lord and Christopher Miller.
With its gripping storytelling, stunning visuals, and emotionally resonant moments, Project Hail Mary has quickly become one of the year’s most exciting cinematic experiences.
A Record-Breaking Opening in the Philippines
The excitement is equally strong in the Philippines. During its first five days in cinemas, Project Hail Mary earned ₱29,258,184, marking the biggest Hollywood opening weekend of 2026 in the country.
Driven by enthusiastic audience reactions and strong word of mouth, the film has also secured the largest opening for a Hollywood original non-franchise film since Oppenheimer—a remarkable milestone in today’s blockbuster landscape.
Moviegoers nationwide are embracing the film’s powerful blend of science, suspense, humor, and heart, making it a must-watch big-screen event.
An Epic Story That Captivates Audiences
Based on Andy Weir’s celebrated novel, Project Hail Mary presents a thrilling narrative that combines science-driven adventure with emotional storytelling. Under the visionary direction of Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, the story transforms into a breathtaking cinematic spectacle filled with wonder, tension, and unforgettable moments.
As audiences embark on this ambitious journey across the cosmos, the film’s themes of resilience, discovery, and hope resonate deeply—reminding viewers of the extraordinary power of human determination.
Watch the Trailer
Experience the adventure here:
Now Showing in Philippine Cinemas
The interstellar mission has begun. “Project Hail Mary” is now showing in cinemas across the Philippines.
The film is distributed locally by Columbia Pictures, the Philippine office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.
Join the conversation online using #ProjectHailMary and follow @columbiapicph for updates and exclusive content.
There’s something about Project Hail Mary that makes it feel better suited for a different time. Based on the novel by Andy Weir, the same novelist who also wrote the book for Ridley Scott’s 2015 hit The Martian was based on, there are many similarities between both films. It’s a science fiction movie where the science is made fun and comprehensible for the average viewer, maintaining a tone that’s light-hearted, feel-good, and inspiring. With directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller and a screenplay by Drew Goddard, the film is really in good hands. With Ryan Gosling as the lead, there is simply no reason for this film to fail.
And for the most part, it doesn’t. Project Hail Mary’ tells the story of Dr. Ryland Grace (Gosling), who wakes up on a spaceship en route to the star Tau Ceti. He initially doesn’t remember who he is nor why he is the only crew member on the ship to survive. As his memories start to return, we discover that a cosmic event has brought an alien organism – dubbed “Astrophage” – through space, which has begun to “eat the sun.” Dr. Grace is part of a global team of scientists who try to understand Astrophage and how to stop it before it destroys all life on Earth. Only one star doesn’t seem to be affected by Astrophage and that’s the star Tau Ceti. On his way to complete his mission – investigate Tau Ceti and why it isn’t being consumed by the cosmic microorganism, Grace discovers another alien species also trying to investigate Tau Ceti. Despite the language barrier, the two figure out how to communicate, and Grace and “Rocky” join forces to save both their planets.
The film is a lengthy 156 minutes, with the first forty minutes detailing the specifics of the mission and how Grace – a disgraced molecular biologist, who is teaching in middle school – becomes part of the space mission. There, he interacts with the project commander, Eva Stratt (a magnificent Sandra Huller), as he tries to understand the science to get them into space.
Then the following act focuses on how Grace and Rocky (voiced and lead puppeteer James Ortiz) establish first contact and form their bond. Finally, the last forty minutes or so bring the mission to its conclusion. It’s a very loaded film, but the pacing is extremely quick and a lot of things are happening that it never feels boring.
Ryan Gosling stars as Ryland Grace in PROJECT HAIL MARY, from Amazon MGM Studios. Photo credit: Jonathan Olley
The film bombards you with nostalgia as they play very familiar songs, mostly from the ’90s and early 2000s (though I did catch a few older songs as well), while finding heart and humor in the interactions between Gosling’s Grace and Rocky. Their shared need to save their planets has turned two very, very different personalities into great friends. It’s so refreshing, though, to see a world so quick to cooperate; even the idea that the whole world stopped fighting each other to gather their resources and talents to form this project, which they called Hail Mary. For some reason, I find it easier to believe in an alien such as Rocky exists but I am having such a hard time believing in a world coming together to stop ourselves from becoming extinct.
This is where I feel the film seems to be lost in time. It has fantastic visual effects, creating gorgeous cosmic and interplanetary imagery for Grace and Rocky to inhabit. The action sequences on the spaceship are deeply engaging, and Daniel Pemberton’s score lends a grand, epic scale to the proceedings trying to make it feel as big as it is. In all honesty, every individual part of this film works so beautifully. It is an enjoyable film; I even found myself gasping and holding back tears during two sections because of how well the story unfolds and allows us to really invest in its characters. Gosling is at his most charming, considering the scene partner he spends most time with is an alien puppet and, in flashbacks, the cold and guarded Eva Stratt. Yet, there’s a kindness and hope to the film that feels so tone deaf in a world currently in the throes of World War III.
It doesn’t help that, later on in the film, we discover some very unsavory truths that really begs the question: is the human race really worth saving? Perhaps the film’s ending is Lord and Miller’s way of injecting a bit of cynicism and commentary into the proceedings. By all respects, Project Hail Mary is a really good film. I just wished it had been released earlier, before this global mess we currently find ourselves in. The timing undermines the film’s good intentions. I laughed, I was moved, and I held back tears, but it was the moment I left the cinema, that the film started to feel empty. Instead of being hopeful and inspiring, the film ended up feeling like an escapist fantasy.
My Rating: 3.5 Stars
Is Project Hail Mary the hopeful escape we need right now, or is it just too far-fetched for 2026? Catch it while it’s still on the big screen and let us know: are you team “Science” or team “Cynicism”?
Looking for a thrilling ride through space? Curious about a boxing legend’s rise to fame? In the mood for ghostly scares or emotional storytelling? This week’s lineup delivers a little bit of everything.
Now, let’s take a sneak peek at what’s premiering this week:
A science teacher wakes up alone on a spacecraft millions of miles from Earth with no memory of who he is or why he is there. That is the mystery at the heart of Project Hail Mary. As Ryland Grace slowly regains his memories, he discovers a mission of staggering importance. The sun is dying, and humanity’s survival depends on solving a cosmic puzzle involving a strange substance threatening the solar system.
Ryan Gosling leads this high-concept adventure that mixes humor, science, and suspense. Expect big ideas, emotional twists, and a surprising friendship that might become the key to saving Earth.
Step into the electrifying rise of Prince Naseem Hamed, a boxer who shook the world with his bold personality and undeniable talent. Giant traces his journey from the streets of Sheffield to global fame, spotlighting both his victories and the challenges he faced in a divided era.
It’s a powerful story about grit, identity, and defying expectations. Looking for a film that hits hard both inside and outside the ring?
Anime fans get another dose of chaotic comedy and action with this theatrical presentation from the beloved Gintama universe. When a cursed sword transforms a tough vice-commander into an unlikely otaku, chaos follows fast. But beneath the humor lies a deeper conflict that threatens the entire Shinsengumi.
Packed with action, comedy, and classic Gintama energy, this big-screen arc delivers both laughs and high-stakes drama.
Heartfelt and deeply rooted in family, Graduation Day tells the story of a grandmother raising her grandchildren through hardship. With dreams of a better future hanging on one graduation, hope becomes their strongest anchor.
It’s the kind of film that resonates long after the credits roll. Looking for something touching and relatable?
A quiet life turns terrifying when a pregnant woman unknowingly brings home something sinister. What follows is a chilling descent into possession and fear, pushing a desperate husband to seek supernatural help.
If you’re in the mood for a tense, slow-burning scare that creeps under your skin, Mudborn delivers.
Behind every chart-topping song lies a story. Songs for Selina explores the complicated relationship between two musical partners whose lives take very different paths.
Selina becomes a star while Maya remains hidden behind the scenes as a ghostwriter. As fame grows and pressures mount, their bond is tested by ambition, loyalty, and the harsh realities of the music industry.
What starts as a routine night shift quickly spirals into something far more sinister. In The Mortuary Assistant, a young graduate finds herself facing unexplainable horrors inside a quiet mortuary.
Expect eerie tension, unsettling moments, and a story that keeps you guessing. Brave enough to watch this alone?
Urban Evil Extreme | Image Source: Crystalsky Entertainment FB Page
Something dark is lurking in Urban Evil Extreme, and it refuses to stay hidden. If you’re chasing that adrenaline rush from a truly unsettling experience, this might be your next pick.
Ready for Your Next Movie Time?
Whether you’re in the mood for an emotional story, a pulse-pounding scare, or an out-of-this-world adventure, this week’s lineup has something for everyone. Will you go for a gripping sci-fi journey, a heartfelt family tale, or a horror pick that lingers long after the credits roll?
Planning a barkada movie night or a solo cinema escape? There’s no shortage of options to match your vibe, intense, moving, or purely entertaining.
Stay tuned for next week’s fresh batch of releases and updates. Keep ClickTheCity.com bookmarked for the latest showtimes, your next movie is just a click away!
Lights, cameras, and plenty of star power filled Cineworld Leicester Square in London as Ryan Gosling and Sandra Hüller attended the World Premiere of Project Hail Mary on March 9. The highly anticipated sci-fi film brought together its impressive cast and creative team for a celebratory night that instantly energized fans and media alike.
(L-R) James Ortiz, Ryan Gosling, Sandra Hüller, Christopher Miller, and Phil Lord attend the World Premiere of Project Hail Mary at the Cineworld Leicester Square on March 09, 2026 in London, England.
Joining the stars were acclaimed filmmakers Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, the frequent collaborators who serve as both directors and producers of the film. Their presence added even more excitement to the red carpet event, signaling a bold cinematic experience ahead.
With flashing cameras and cheering crowds, the premiere marked the official launch of a film poised to capture the imagination of science fiction enthusiasts around the world.
A Mission That Could Save the Sun
At the center of the story is Ryland Grace, played by Ryan Gosling. A middle school science teacher turned reluctant astronaut, Grace wakes up alone aboard a spacecraft with no memory of who he is or why he’s there.
Gradually, fragments of his memory return. He realizes he has been sent on a critical mission—to stop a mysterious alien lifeform that is slowly draining the sun’s energy. If left unchecked, the phenomenon could doom Earth and threaten the survival of humanity.
Facing overwhelming odds, Grace must rely on science, ingenuity, and determination to solve the crisis. Along the way, he encounters an unexpected ally who becomes crucial to the mission. Together, they confront the daunting challenge of saving the planet before time runs out.
A Visionary Team Behind the Adventure
Guiding this ambitious story are Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, celebrated for their inventive storytelling and dynamic filmmaking style. Their collaboration promises a film that balances thrilling spectacle with emotional depth and humor.
Ryan Gosling and Sandra Hüller pose together at the World Premiere of Project Hail Mary at Cineworld Leicester Square on March 09, 2026 in London, England.
With Ryan Gosling leading the cast and Sandra Hüller joining the ensemble, Project Hail Mary delivers a gripping blend of science, suspense, and human resilience.
Watch the Highlights from the World Premiere
Curious about the energy from the big night in London? Catch the moments from the red carpet and celebration here:
Landing in Philippine Cinemas Soon
The countdown has officially begun. Packed with suspense, heart, and cosmic stakes, Project Hail Mary invites audiences to experience an unforgettable journey across space.
A Galactic Adventure Inspired by a Sci-Fi Bestseller
A remarkable journey far beyond our solar system awaits audiences in Project Hail Mary, the big-screen adaptation of Andy Weir’s internationally celebrated sci-fi novel. Known for his hit book The Martian, Weir once again delivers a story packed with science, suspense, and heart—now transformed into a spectacular cinematic experience.
Bringing the story to life are acclaimed filmmakers Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, who serve as both producers and directors. When the pair first received Weir’s manuscript, they were instantly hooked.
“We read it in 24 hours,” Miller says. “I stayed up all night. I think I went to bed at 5am because I had to find out what happened.”
That kind of page-turning energy made the project impossible to resist.
While Project Hail Mary initially presents itself as an intense space mission, the story gradually reveals something deeper and more personal.
According to Lord, the narrative evolves in a surprising and compelling way.
“It presents as a space adventure, a disaster movie, and then a third of the way through, it becomes an intimate character study between two individuals who have to learn how to communicate,” Lord says. “That shift is what makes it special.”
Because of that shift, the film balances thrilling stakes with a heartfelt exploration of connection and understanding.
Watch the Sneak Peek
Curious about what lies ahead? Catch a glimpse of the mission in the latest vignette from Project Hail Mary:
Ryan Gosling Leads Humanity’s Last Hope
The preview offers a taste of the film’s scale, suspense, and emotional moments.
In the film, Ryan Gosling plays Ryland Grace, a middle school science teacher who wakes up aboard a spacecraft far from Earth. Disoriented and suffering from amnesia, Grace slowly begins to recover his memories.
The realization is staggering.
He is the sole survivor of a desperate mission sent across space to solve a mysterious cosmic threat. A strange organism is draining energy from the Sun, placing humanity—and the entire planet—in grave danger.
As Grace pieces together the truth, he begins working toward a solution. Along the way, he encounters an unexpected ally, forming an unlikely partnership that could mean the difference between survival and extinction.
Andy Weir Had Ryan Gosling in Mind
Interestingly, Andy Weir had already imagined Ryan Gosling portraying Ryland Grace even before the novel reached readers. In early 2020, the author personally shared the manuscript with the actor ahead of the book’s release.
Weir also hoped Gosling might help produce the film adaptation.
The story immediately resonated with him.
“It’s such an epic journey,” Gosling says. “And Ryland Grace is not stoic in any way. He’s not brave in any traditional sense and he doesn’t have any illusions about being a hero. But he keeps trying.”
That determination makes the character both relatable and compelling.
After Gosling joined the project, a talented creative team quickly came together. Among them is producer Amy Pascal, known for her work on films such as Little Women and Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.
Pascal was captivated not only by the science within the story but also by its message about trust and cooperation.
“It’s about science, yes,” Pascal says. “But it’s also about faith – faith in people, faith in collaboration.”
She notes that the film’s themes feel especially relevant today.
We’re living in a time where everyone is scared of each other. No one trusts each other. Nobody wants to listen to each other. Everybody’s in their silos just believing what they believe and reading different newspapers and not opening themselves up to other people. This movie is about having to listen. You have to learn someone else’s language. You have to understand where they’re coming from, or you can’t save the world.”
A Story of Hope and Possibility
For Lord and Miller, Project Hail Mary carries a powerful message about what humanity can achieve together.
“We are living through a time where things can seem impossible, and this movie is about what is possible when people come together with imagination and goodwill,” Lord says.
The result is a story that blends scientific curiosity with optimism and emotional depth.
Prepare for Liftoff
Filled with high-stakes discoveries, unexpected friendships, and breathtaking cosmic moments, Project Hail Mary promises an unforgettable big-screen experience.
Get ready for an inspiring adventure across the stars when Project Hail Mary arrives in Philippine cinemas on March 18. Distributed locally by Columbia Pictures PH.
Blasting off with extraordinary buzz, Project Hail Mary is already shaping up to be one of the most anticipated films of 2026.
Following an early screening, members of the press and critics alike have showered the film with glowing praise, describing it as “imagination unleashed” and an unforgettable big-screen experience. Based on Andy Weir’s bestselling novel, the film adaptation is helmed by the dynamic duo Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, bringing their signature energy and heart to this ambitious space epic.
And yes—audiences should prepare for something special.
Ryan Gosling Leads a Mission to Save Humanity
At the heart of the story is Ryland Grace (Ryan Gosling), an ordinary science teacher who wakes up aboard a spacecraft with no memory of who he is—or how he got there. Alone in the vastness of space, he gradually pieces together the shocking truth: he is on a last-chance mission to prevent Earth’s extinction.
As the mystery unfolds, so does an emotional and visually spectacular journey that balances science, suspense, humor, and humanity.
Joining Gosling is a stellar ensemble cast that includes Sandra Hüller, Milana Vayntrub, Ken Leung, Liz Kingsman, and James Ortiz, each contributing to the film’s gripping and heartfelt narrative.
Watch the trailer here:
“Perfect,” “Masterful,” and “Pure Joy”: Critics React
The first wave of reactions has been nothing short of explosive.
Journalist Liam Crowley shared his emotional response online, writing:
“#ProjectHailMary is perfect. Imagination unleashed even better than I pictured it on the page. How Gosling captivates throughout a largely one-man show is beyond me – your earliest Best Actor contender. & my sweet prince Rocky… tears flowed all third act. What a beautiful display of companionship. Heartwarming. Heartbreaking. And genuinely funny! An absolute must-see theatrical experience.“
Variety Editor Jazz Tangcay praised both the storytelling and technical craftsmanship, noting:
#ProjectHailMary is masterful and so beautifully done. A truly heartwarming story of humanity and friendship. A superb performance from Ryan Gosling – a career best. Greig Fraser’s cinematography is exquisite to perfection.”
Writer Kevin Verma emphasized the film’s grand cinematic scale:
#ProjectHailMary absolutely floored me. Lord and Miller deliver a space odyssey that is deeply human and heartwarming. Ryan Gosling is fantastic here and brings emotion and charm to this SciFi epic. Incredible visuals and a pulsing score. You wanna see this one in @IMAX”
Meanwhile, Gizmodo Senior Reporter Germain Lussier described the film as:
“#ProjectHailMary is pure joy. Hilarious, heartfelt, hugely moving, wildly exciting and absolutely beautiful. The 160 minutes go by in an instant as Lord and Miller keep Weir’s narrative moving like a rocket ship. Gosling is better than ever and the Rocky effect and mind blowing.”
A Space Epic with Heart
While Project Hail Mary boasts stunning visuals and immersive world-building, it’s the emotional core that truly sets it apart. At its center lies a moving story of friendship, sacrifice, and resilience—proving that even in the farthest reaches of space, humanity remains the most powerful force of all.
With breathtaking cinematography by Greig Fraser and a pulse-quickening score, the film promises a thrilling, immersive theatrical experience designed for the biggest screen possible.
Prepare for Launch
With critics already calling it a landmark blockbuster, Project Hail Mary is poised to capture audiences worldwide.
Get ready for lift-off when this exhilarating and heartfelt sci-fi adventure opens in Philippine cinemas on March 18. Distributed locally by Columbia Pictures.
Humanity’s Last Hope Rests on One Man… and a Mysterious Ally
What happens when the survival of Earth falls into the hands of an ordinary man? In Project Hail Mary, the world is counting on one reluctant hero—played by Academy Award nominee Ryan Gosling—in a high-stakes sci-fi spectacle from the visionary creators behind the Spider-Verse films.
Based on the critically acclaimed novel by Andy Weir (The Martian), this upcoming cinematic adventure is a heart-pounding mix of mystery, science, and unexpected connection. The newly released trailer gives audiences their first taste of this cosmic rollercoaster—one packed with emotional stakes, mind-bending discoveries, and interstellar wonder.
Watch the Trailer Now:
From Classroom to Cosmos
Ryan Gosling stars as Ryland Grace, a mild-mannered science teacher who awakens aboard a spaceship—light-years from Earth—with no memory of who he is or how he got there. As he pieces together his identity, the truth hits hard: he’s on a one-man mission to save Earth from an extinction-level threat.
But Grace might not be alone after all. As he confronts a deadly cosmic mystery, an unexpected friendship becomes his only hope—not just for survival, but for salvation.
Meet the Stellar Team Behind Project Hail Mary
This isn’t just another space movie. Behind the camera are Academy Award-winning directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller (Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, The LEGO Movie), bringing their signature storytelling magic to the stars.
The screenplay is written by Drew Goddard (The Martian, The Cabin in the Woods), who adapts Andy Weir’s mind-bending novel for the screen. The film also boasts an all-star production team including Amy Pascal, Ryan Gosling, Aditya Sood, and Andy Weir himself.
Cast:
Ryan Gosling as Ryland Grace
Sandra Hüller
Lionel Boyce
Ken Leung
Milana Vayntrub
Why You Should Be Excited
If you loved the realism and wit of The Martian, Project Hail Mary is your next big obsession. The film blends smart science with heart, humor, and a twist that could only come from the mind of Andy Weir.
Whether you’re a space geek, a Gosling fan, or just love a good survival story with soul, this is one film you won’t want to miss on the big screen. The trailer alone promises everything: edge-of-your-seat tension, stunning visuals, and a story that goes far beyond what you expect from sci-fi.
Coming Soon to Philippine Cinemas
Distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International, Project Hail Mary is one of the most anticipated films of the upcoming year.
Stay tuned for release date announcements, and be sure to follow @columbiapicph and the hashtag #ProjectHailMaryfor updates.
Final Transmission
Ryan Gosling. A dying star. A chance encounter. And a mission that could change everything.
Catch Project Hail Mary in theaters soon—and experience the adventure that’s out of this world.
11.9 Light-Years from Earth. A Middle School Science Teacher. Humanity’s Last Hope.
From Andy Weir, the New York Times bestselling author of The Martian, comes a new cinematic space thriller, Project Hail Mary, starring acclaimed actor Ryan Gosling.
The film is directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, the creative team behind the groundbreaking Spider-Verse franchise, promising audiences a bold, visually stunning experience.
Watch the Official Trailer Now:
About Project Hail Mary
Ryland Grace is an ordinary man with an extraordinary mission. Once a middle school science teacher, he wakes up alone on a spacecraft light-years from Earth, with no memory of how he got there.
As fragments of his past return, he discovers that the fate of the entire human race rests on his shoulders. With time running out and no backup, Grace must solve an interstellar mystery and attempt the impossible.
Project Hail Mary is a gripping survival story filled with heart, science, and suspense, exploring how far one person will go to save humanity.
Fans of The Martian, Interstellar, and Gravity will be captivated by this high-stakes space adventure.
Coming Soon to Philippine Cinemas
Prepare for an unforgettable journey as Project Hail Mary arrives exclusively in theaters nationwide.
The film is distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, the local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.
Stay updated and be part of the mission by following the hashtag #ProjectHailMary and connecting with @columbiapicph.
