New York: The official trailer for Project Hail Mary has been released, offering a first look at Ryan Gosling as a schoolteacher-turned-astronaut tasked with saving humanity. The film is based on Andy Weir’s bestselling novel and is scheduled to hit theaters on March 20, 2026.
Directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, the sci-fi drama begins with Gosling’s character, Ryland Grace, waking up alone on a spaceship. He doesn’t remember who he is or why he’s there—until the truth unfolds: Earth is facing extinction, and he’s its last hope.
The trailer also introduces Rocky, an alien companion who may become one of the most talked-about sci-fi characters in recent memory. With grounded science, emotional stakes, and unexpected humour, Project Hail Mary is already being hailed as a must-watch for 2026.
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Ryan Gosling Plays a Teacher Chosen to Save Earth
In the trailer, Ryland Grace wakes up confused, surrounded by blinking machines. Flashbacks suggest he was once a middle school science teacher, unexpectedly chosen for a mission that no one else could survive. “I put the ‘not’ in astronaut,” he jokes.
But the stakes are serious. A mysterious organism is feeding on the Sun’s energy, threatening to send Earth into an Ice Age. Grace’s mission: fly 11.9 light-years away, find a solution, and come back—if he survives.
The first trailer for Project Hail Mary!
Only in theaters & IMAX March 20th 2026… pic.twitter.com/IqvwqEgZQE— Christopher Miller (@chrizmillr) June 30, 2025
Meet Rocky, the Unexpected Alien Co-Pilot
Halfway through the trailer, the tone shifts with the arrival of Rocky—a spider-like alien who isn’t hostile, but curious. Communicating through a series of clicks and tones, Rocky slowly becomes Ryland’s partner in survival.
Their unusual friendship adds emotional weight to the film, echoing themes of cooperation and connection that are rare in modern science fiction. “At least he’s not growing inside me,” Ryland quips, highlighting the film’s balance between drama and humour.
From the Creators of The Martian & The Lego Movie
Project Hail Mary brings together some of the industry’s most acclaimed talent. The screenplay is written by Drew Goddard, who also adapted The Martian, while Phil Lord and Christopher Miller direct. Cinematography is by Oscar-winner Greig Fraser (Dune, The Batman), and Amazon MGM Studios is handling distribution.
Together, the team has crafted a visually rich, emotionally intelligent sci-fi experience that appeals to both casual viewers and genre fans.
When Is Project Hail Mary Releasing?
The film is scheduled to release on March 20, 2026, in theaters and IMAX. Early industry screenings suggest that it could be a major spring release, with strong potential for crossover appeal.
The trailer sets up mystery, urgency, and emotional depth—suggesting the final film will offer more than just visual spectacle. With Gosling in the lead and a compelling story at its core, this is a sci-fi drama designed to leave a lasting impact.
