LOS ANGELES — Amazon MGM Studios has scored its biggest box office debut ever with Project Hail Mary, the sci-fi adaptation of Andy Weir’s bestselling novel. Directed by Phil Lord and Chris Miller and starring Ryan Gosling, the film blasted off with $33 million on opening day across 4,007 theaters and is projected to finish its opening weekend at $77 million.
Amazon’s Biggest Hit Yet
The $77 million launch surpasses Amazon’s previous record set by Creed III in March 2023, which opened to $58.3 million. Since acquiring MGM in 2021, Amazon has been seeking a breakout theatrical success, and Project Hail Mary has delivered.
A Rare Non-Franchise Success
In the past decade, only Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer has posted a higher opening weekend among non-franchise films, with $82 million in July 2023. That puts Project Hail Mary in elite company, proving that original sci-fi storytelling can still draw massive crowds.
Strong Word-of-Mouth
Audiences and critics alike have embraced the film. CinemaScore awarded it an “A,” while Rotten Tomatoes shows a 95% critics score and a 97% audience score. The mix of humor, emotional depth, and thrilling space adventure — anchored by Gosling’s performance — has fueled enthusiasm.
Competition Ahead
Universal’s The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is set to open next week, but industry analysts believe Project Hail Mary has the momentum to remain a spring blockbuster well into April. With strong reviews and audience buzz, Amazon may have found its defining theatrical hit.
A Milestone for Amazon MGM
For Amazon, the success of Project Hail Mary signals a turning point in its film strategy. The studio has proven it can compete with Hollywood’s biggest players, not just in streaming but at the box office.
