Parents' Guide to Project Hail Mary

Like The Martian, this is a winning, crowd-pleasing adaptation of one of author Andy Weir's heartwarming sci-fi thrillers. Gosling is undeniably compelling in Project Hail Mary as a slightly awkward, self-deprecating biology nerd who finds himself in a lonely, nearly hopeless situation on a mission to literally save Earth. For a while, Grace's time aboard the spacecraft is filled with existential dread. He can't even remember who he is, much less what he's supposed to be doing. But once Grace starts recovering his memories (shown as flashbacks), the story gains momentum, especially after he makes contact with Rocky, a plucky extraterrestrial on a nearly identical mission. And there's plenty of humor amid the admittedly fraught situation. In one laugh-out-loud scene, Grace cycles through different options for Rocky's digital voice: Some sound too posh, some too sultry, and one is a voice cameo from arguably one of the world's greatest living actors.

Fans of the book should rejoice. This is a faithful adaptation, even though the science is streamlined for the film, and a few plot points are omitted or only briefly explained. One change that might have helped movie audiences is a clearer explanation of how the induced coma required for the spaceflight depends on a rare genetic trait that few potential mission specialists possess. But, that aside, the film should appeal to Weir devotees as well as casual moviegoers. Phil Lord and Christopher Miller's adaptation shines brightest when it focuses on the developing bond between Grace and Rocky. Their friendship is a delight and a touching reminder of the humor, bravery, and joy that can occur when beings rise to the occasion and look beyond their differences to find common ground. Bottom line? This is a feel-good sci-fi thriller that's genuinely a joy to watch.