Better than the book? WGHS students share their thoughts on the new Sci-Fi hit; Project Hail Mary (SPOILERS).

(Image from U-High Midway)

Students from WGHS had a lot to say about the latest Sci-Fi flick featuring Ryan Gosling, Project Hail Mary. The film, released on March 20th, 2026, offers a mix of Sci-Fi, adventure, and comedy themes. The cinematic shots and the mix of celestial aesthetics and humor gave the viewers lots to talk about. 
by Sabrina Cleland and Haley Hubbard

​The initial thoughts of the movie varied between students. While some found the film to be a classic amongst other movies, others found it to be something out of their league. Annslee Spikes (10) was satisfied with the movie, giving it a five-star rating, despite it being something not within her usual range. “I actually liked it a lot more than expected.” On the other hand, Teo Jurado-Allen (9) offered a different look on the movie, rating it a three out of five. “Some scenes are just boring... I don't really like sci-fi.” He stated that some scenes felt like filler, and he became bored. Lucas Cocchi (12) rated the movie a four out of five, giving a middle ground within the ratings so far. He liked the movie and overall experience, the only setback being the beginning. “The beginning was confusing during the flashbacks.”

Some scenes in the movie definitely stood out more than others. Students expressed which ones stood out most to them. The bond between Ryan Gosling’s character, Ryland, and the alien, Rocky, was a favorite for many. Julian Rojas (12) had a lot of feelings about the spider-like alien. “Whenever Rocky first died, I was disappointed, but then he came back, and I wasn't mad anymore.” Lucas agreed with this, sharing that the moment Rocky saved Ryland was a highlight for him as well. Not every scene landed well with viewers, with Annslee mentioning how the “fake-out ending” was her least favorite part, even though the real ending worked well for her.

Ryan Gosling’s on-screen character received a lot of praise for his mix of comedy into the scenes. Many thought it was very well done. Elija Flores (12) felt that Gosling did a “good job” with the character. With many enjoyers of Gosling's performance, it left fans wondering who else would be a good fit for the role of Ryland Grace. Suggestions ranged from well-known stars like Brad Pitt and Tom Hanks to more niche choices like Anthony Stoner. The movie’s biggest hit seemed to be its balance of themes. The mix of comedy within the sci-fi realm made the film more enjoyable for many. Elija commented on this: “The mix of sci-fi and comedy was amazing because it would just be serious and more boring.”

While it may not have been the biggest hit for some, it was for many here at WGHS. Project Hail Mary had a way of bringing a bit of light to sci-fi and making it better to be enjoyed by all. The film’s mix of space and adventure with a hint of wit made this movie worth the watch and all the more inspirational to WGHS.