Project Hail Mary [2026] - FULL REACTION!! (Patreon)

Science teacher Ryland Grace wakes up on a spaceship with no recollection of who he is or how he got there. That’s exactly how I went into this movie. Beyond a cold caller - more like a rock out in space!

GUYS, THIS MOVIE DID THE ONE THING I SAY IS THE ULTIMATE COMPLIMENT!!

I stopped talking about filmmaking…WOW!

Don’t worry, it was only for a scene, or two and I apologise for this but this movie just captured my eyes, heart and every microfibre in-between. I am in LOVE.

This story is the modern-day version of E.T. or something along those lines. It also feels like home, something cozy that brings you comfort… Perhaps a movie of old would you say?

The clever filmmaking here not only visually but also technically is out of this world fantastic. The way it leaves its impression on you and the process of making the movie feels like you could actually touch it. Reminded me of why I fell in love with movies and why I wanted to tell my own stories.

I’m absolutely in love with the technique here called “film out”. I’d heard of it but never realised this was it! It was also in Dune, another movie that made me feel this way.

What is it?

Filming: Shot digitally using Arri Alexa 65 and Mini LF cameras.

Film-Out: The digital footage was printed onto real celluloid film stock (including IMAX 70mm) to introduce authentic film grain and texture.

Scanning: The printed film was then scanned back into the digital realm for the final master.

Apparently, it wasn’t the entire movie, just the Earth scenes.

Purpose: This technique, used to separate Grace's Earth memories from the Tau Ceti system, provides "non-linear density across the frame" and "highlights blooming" that purely digital LUTs cannot achieve. LUTs - Look Up Table. Think of it as a premade glass lens that you can put over your eyes to make everything look a certain way. Now apply that to footage.

Technique Variation: Space scenes used 5203 for a gritty, isolated look, while Earth sequences used 5254 with silver retention for a smoother, nostalgic feel.

"5203 and 5254" refers to Kodak - film stock. The 5203 is a professional motion picture stock introduced in 2011, renowned for having the world's finest grain. It is a low-speed, daylight-balanced (5600K) stock that is primarily used by cinematographers for high-contrast, bright exterior scenes to achieve a crisp, clean cinematic look.

You should also now know after watching content with me the what the K is on numbers. Kelvin - which is the unit of measurement for colour temperature.

Such an awesome time and adventure.

Play The Tape!

Kai