This episode is dedicated to Ethan Taylor. The audiobook version of Project Hail Mary was very soothing for his parents as they began to mourn his transcendence. This one is for Ethan.
Join our intrepid crew of space travelers, Sherin, Mae, Julian, Kwesi, and Jasmine, for a journey across the galaxy to talk all things Project Hail Mary, the new sci-fi movie starring Ryan Gosling and Sandra Hüller, based on the book by Andy Weir.
First Feels + Friendship
Blasting off with a fiery setup, our crew dives into Ryan Gosling’s performance as Ryland Grace, as well as Project Hail Mary’s layers, the production design, and the way space (and gravity) is explored. Throwing in some comparisons to Andy Weir’s 2011 novel, The Martian, they spend the first segment paying homage to the power of friendship and the bravery found in this impossible mission to save the world.
Science, Ethics + Robots
Could this be the beginning of an Andy Weir universe? Our Rioters get into it. They dissect the science and ethics powering the story, with some nods to the direction by the Lego Batman team, Phil Lord & Christopher Miller. The GGR hosts also talk about James Ortiz’s puppetry portrayal of Rocky and their eternal love for robots, as well as the character of Carl, played by The Bear’s Lionel Boyce.
Taking Risks + Closing Thoughts
One thing the Rioters appreciate is how PHM takes big risks; they discuss the writing and the mixing of tones, and how the film fits into the sci-fi genre. They also shout out Sandra Hüller’s portrayal of Eva Stratt, before closing out with why they think Project Hail Mary is everything you want it to be, whether you’re a fan of the book, movies, or science fiction.
Project Hail Mary hits theaters on March 20 (read Sherin’s full review here).
