The difference between a great premise and a great story often comes down to two things: "intention and obstacle."  What does a character want, and what's standing in their way?  The answers create conflict, and conflict is what keeps us invested. This month, we'll watch four films that demonstrate just how powerful that simple storytelling formula can be.

We're kicking off the month with one of this year's biggest crowd-pleasers.  Directed by Academy Award winners Phil Lord and Christopher Miller and starring Ryan Gosling, Project Hail Mary follows a middle-school science teacher who awakens aboard a spacecraft with no memory of who he is or why he's there.  As his memories slowly return, he discovers he may be humanity's last hope.

Funny, suspenseful, and surprisingly heartfelt, the film combines big ideas, high-stakes adventure, and genuine emotional warmth.  Adapted from the bestselling novel by Andy Weir (The Martian), it's a thrilling story of ingenuity, perseverance, and one man's determination to accomplish an impossible mission against staggering odds.

***

This film is being presented as part of the Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library's Wednesday Movie Club, a weekly showcase of movies that matter for people who love movies.  Bring a friend or just come by yourself (most people do).  Attendees will be invited to discuss the film immediately following the screening. This program is free, and registration is not required. 

Title: Project Hail Mary
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 2h 36m
Production Year: 2026
Cast: Ryan Gosling, Milana Vayntrub, Sandra Hüller
Director: Phil Lord & Christopher Miller