Project Hail Mary Book Inspires Ryan Gosling Film

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Project Hail Mary, the new film starring Ryan Gosling, is based on Andy Weir's 2021 bestselling science fiction novel of the same name. The book follows a scientist who wakes up on a spaceship light-years from Earth with no memory, tasked with stopping a mysterious, star-eating algae from destroying the sun. Weir, a self-described "science dork" known for his commitment to scientific accuracy, has built a devoted following for his propulsive, high-concept sci-fi stories like The Martian.

Why it matters

Weir's novels, including The Martian and Artemis, have earned him a reputation as a leading voice in modern science fiction. Project Hail Mary's adaptation to the big screen with Ryan Gosling in the lead role is expected to further boost Weir's profile and introduce his work to a wider audience.

The details

Project Hail Mary centers on a mysterious, star-eating algae called "astrophage" that is threatening to kill the sun, forcing a scientist to embark on a suicide mission to stop it. The book explores the science behind this threat, including how astrophage can be used as a powerful fuel source for space travel. Weir developed the concept through a thought experiment about a microbe that could "eat" starlight.

• Project Hail Mary the movie debuts in theaters this weekend.
• The book Project Hail Mary was published in 2021 and spent 9 weeks on The New York Times Best Seller list.
• Weir's previous novel, The Martian, was published in 2011 and later adapted into a film starring Matt Damon.

What’s next

The Project Hail Mary film is expected to be a contender for Oscars consideration in 2027.