'Project Hail Mary' posts $80M US opening, setting new record for March non-franchise release

The film’s performance also represents the best domestic opening for Amazon MGM Studios, surpassing previous records

Project Hail Mary has delivered a strong box office debut, earning more than $80 million in its opening weekend and setting a new benchmark for a non-franchise release in March.

The film, directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller and starring Ryan Gosling, marks a significant milestone for Amazon MGM Studios.

The production recorded $27.1 million on Saturday, a drop of just 18% from its $33.1 million Friday and preview earnings, bringing its total to approximately $80.6 million domestically. This places it among the highest openings for an original, non-sequel film, just behind Oppenheimer, which opened to $82.4 million.

The film’s performance also represents the best domestic opening for Amazon MGM Studios to date, surpassing previous records and highlighting the growing impact of streamer-backed theatrical releases. It is also the strongest opening for Lord and Miller as directors, exceeding the debut of The Lego Movie, and ranks as Ryan Gosling’s second-highest opening after Barbie.

Industry data shows the film performed strongly across multiple regions, particularly in the West, Midwest and South of the United States. Premium formats, including IMAX and other large screens, contributed significantly, accounting for more than half of total ticket sales.

Audience response has been notably positive, with high recommendation scores across demographic groups. Viewers cited the film’s appeal as an entertaining science fiction story, as well as Gosling’s involvement, as key reasons for attending.

The release has also contributed to a wider boost in box office revenue, with the overall weekend projected to exceed $140 million, a substantial increase compared to the same period last year.

Elsewhere, Dhurandhar: The Revenge is outperforming expectations, while Ready or Not 2: Here I Come is tracking slightly behind early projections. Further updates on final weekend figures are expected.