The minute someone told me that Project Hail Mary feels like an old-school ’80s movie, I knew it had to go on my watch list ASAP. If your kids love space, adventure, or Ryan Gosling, you’ve probably seen Project Hail Mary trending as a must-see movie in theaters right now. But is Project Hail Mary OK for kids to watch?
My 9-year-old and I love going to the movies together, and this is one of the biggest movies coming out this year. But could some scenes be too intense for his age demo? I dug deep into how appropriate the film really is for kids. Below, I’m breaking down what parents should know about the best viewing age, scary moments, and what to watch out for if you take your kiddo to the theater to catch this new flick.
Looking for more family movie ideas? Try these:
- Is the ‘Disclosure Day’ Movie OK for Kids? What Parents Should Know
- 16 Books to Read About Space If You Can’t Stop Thinking About Artemis II
- Is the Wicked Movie OK for Kids? Parents Weigh In
What Is Project Hail Mary About?
Based on the bestselling novel by Andy Weir, Project Hail Mary is a classic sci-fi adventure. Weir previously wrote The Martian—which was then turned into a 2015 movie starring Matt Damon—and Project Hail Mary is a similar story mixing comedy and adventure. I’ve even heard it described as this generation’s E.T.
The Project Hail Mary book-to-movie adaptation follows science teacher Ryland Grace (played by Ken, uh, I mean Ryan Gosling) as he wakes up from a medically-induced coma in 2032, light-years from home and alone on a spaceship. He can’t remember who he is or why he’s there. He quickly realizes he’s on a mission to save Earth. Here’s where the E.T. comparison comes in: he befriends the only other life-form around, a cute alien named Rocky.
Quick Facts About the Project Hail Mary Movie
- Rating: PG-13
- Rated For: Some peril, mild language, and sci-fi tension
- Genre: Sci-fi, Adventure
- Length: 2 hours, 37 minutes
- Recommended Age: 10+, depending on sensitivity
- Educational Value: Some science concepts, space exploration
Should You Let Your Kids Watch Project Hail Mary?
With a PG-13 rating (for mild language and some sci-fi related danger), this adventure movie may best be suited for an older elementary-aged kid. If you have a 6-year-old who’s obsessed with space exploration and all-things science, it may be too intense for them. All kids are different, however, so I’d recommend watching Project Hail Mary on your own first if you plan to watch with a kid under age 10.
Is Project Hail Mary Scary?
Again, this really depends on the person. What might be scary or disturbing for me wouldn’t frighten my kid. The film includes tension and suspense and some serious life-or-death stakes (it does take place in space, after all). That might make kids who are naturally nervous even more anxious, so definitely take that into account.
Project Hail Mary movie scenes that may be intense for kids:
- Space peril: Life-or-death situations in a confined setting
- Suspenseful problem-solving: High-pressure moments where failure has big consequences
- Isolation: The main character is alone for much of the film
- Emotional stakes: The fate of Earth and humanity
Is Project Hail Mary OK for Kids? Quick Verdict for Parents
Reviews for Project Hail Mary have largely been positive, but the subject matter does skew towards being appropriate for an older child. But if you have a space-obsessed kiddo who loves going to the movies, it can be tempting to head to the theater. If you have a kid under age 10 who is interested in seeing the film, I would strongly recommend previewing it ahead of time.
Quick verdict for parents:
- The Project Hail Mary movie is good for older kids aged 10+
- If you want to watch Project Hail Mary with younger kids, preview it ahead of time
- The Project Hail Mary movie includes exciting adventure, language, and tense moments
Consider waiting or previewing Project Hail Mary if:
- Your child is under age 9
- They are sensitive to suspense or emotional intensity
- They prefer fast-paced or lighthearted movies
- They have a tough time sitting still for 2.5 hours
Project Hail Mary Movie FAQs
Is Project Hail Mary too scary for kids?
Project Hail Mary isn’t a horror movie, but it does include suspenseful moments and high-stakes situations that may feel intense for younger viewers. Most older kids will find it exciting, while more sensitive children may need a parent to watch with them.
What age is Project Hail Mary appropriate for?
Most parents will find it best for ages 10 and up, based on the PG-13 rating and the level of suspense and emotional stakes in the story.
Is there language in Project Hail Mary?
There is some mild language, but nothing excessive or unexpected for a PG-13 movie.
Are there any frightening or intense scenes in Project Hail Mary?
Yes, the movie includes scenes involving space danger, isolation, and high-pressure problem-solving that may feel intense for younger or sensitive viewers.
Is Project Hail Mary educational for kids?
Yes! The movie includes a strong focus on science, space, and problem-solving, making it a great pick for kids who are curious about how things work.
Should parents watch Project Hail Mary with their kids?
For younger viewers, watching the Project Hail Mary movie together is a good idea. Parents can help explain the science concepts and provide reassurance during more intense scenes.
Roberta Correia, Editor-in-Chief
Roberta is an editor with 10+ years experience in content strategy and brand building. Before joining The Everymom she was Editorial Director at Brides and previously served as Digital Editor at Women’s Wear Daily. She grew up in Brazil and currently calls Brooklyn home with her son, Lucas.
