Ryan Gosling took center stage at CinemaCon on April 2, 2025, to unveil the first footage from his upcoming film, Project Hail Mary, a sci-fi adventure based on Andy Weir's bestselling novel. The presentation marked a significant moment for Amazon MGM Studios, as it was their inaugural appearance at the annual convention, showcasing their commitment to theatrical releases.
Gosling, who portrays Ryland Grace, a middle school science teacher turned reluctant astronaut, emphasized the film’s suitability for the big screen. "We tried to put it on a TV once — it wouldn’t fit," he remarked, highlighting the film's grand scale. The actor described Project Hail Mary as an "insanely ambitious story, massive in scope," which is set to captivate audiences when it hits theaters on March 20, 2026.
The presentation kicked off with a cold open, showcasing exclusive footage that lasted several minutes. Directed by the acclaimed duo Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, known for their work on The Lego Movie and 21 Jump Street, the film promises a blend of humor and spectacle, a hallmark of the directors' style. Gosling noted, "This is why we go to the movies," reinforcing the film's cinematic appeal.
In the film, Gosling's character is thrust into a dire situation where he must save Earth from an astronomical catastrophe. After waking up on a spaceship with no recollection of how he got there, Grace is confronted by a government handler, played by Sandra Hüller, who insists he has what it takes to embark on this perilous mission. "I put the ‘not’ in astronaut," Gosling quips, showcasing his character's reluctance and humor, which will likely resonate with audiences.
The trailer, set to the evocative strains of Harry Styles' "Sign of the Times," features Gosling's character grappling with the enormity of his task. As he navigates the cosmos, he encounters a mysterious alien, adding layers of intrigue to the narrative. The film's producers include Gosling himself, alongside Amy Pascal, Lord, Miller, Aditya Sood, Rachel O’Connor, and Weir, ensuring a collaborative effort to bring this ambitious project to life.
Mike Hopkins, head of Amazon and MGM Studios, took the stage to underscore the company's commitment to theatrical releases, a strategic move to win over theater owners. He highlighted that Amazon MGM Studios plans to deliver over a dozen films to theaters, signaling a new direction for the streaming giant. This commitment is particularly significant in an era where many studios are leaning towards direct-to-streaming releases.
The rights to Weir's novel sparked a bidding war, with MGM acquiring them for $3 million before the studio was purchased by Amazon. This acquisition underscores the high expectations surrounding the film, given the success of Weir's previous work, The Martian, which was adapted into a blockbuster starring Matt Damon.
During the CinemaCon presentation, Gosling, Lord, and Miller engaged with the audience, sharing insights into their collaboration. Gosling expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, "It’s an insanely ambitious story that’s massive in scope and seemed really hard to make, and that’s kind of our bag." He praised the unique vision that Lord and Miller bring to the film, noting their ability to evoke both laughter and emotion in audiences.
As the trio concluded their presentation, they charmed the crowd with witty banter, reinforcing the collaborative spirit that defines Project Hail Mary. Gosling, who recently starred in the hit film Barbie, is excited about returning to space after portraying Neil Armstrong in First Man. His return to the genre is highly anticipated, especially with a narrative that promises both humor and high stakes.
The presentation at CinemaCon serves as a strategic move for Amazon MGM Studios, positioning them as a serious player in the film industry. With a focus on theatrical releases and a star-studded lineup, they aim to redefine the streaming landscape. Project Hail Mary is not just another film; it represents a commitment to cinematic storytelling that resonates with audiences.
As CinemaCon continues from March 31 to April 3, the excitement surrounding Project Hail Mary is palpable. With Gosling at the helm, along with a talented team behind the scenes, the film is poised to make a significant impact when it premieres in 2026. The blend of humor, science fiction, and heartfelt storytelling is sure to attract a wide audience, making it a must-see film in the coming years.
