Why Is Ryan Gosling's Project Hail Mary Struggling for IMAX Screens in India?

Ryan Gosling's latest sci-fi film, Project Hail Mary, has received acclaim but faces challenges in securing IMAX screenings in India due to competition from local films. Voice actress Priya Kansara shares her thoughts on the limited availability of screens and the audience's response, including petitions for more showings. The film, which premiered in India on March 20, tells the story of Ryland Grace, a teacher on an interstellar mission. Read on to learn more about the film's reception and the efforts of fans to increase its visibility.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 30, 2026, 12:13 IST

Project Hail Mary: A Sci-Fi Hit with IMAX Challenges

Project Hail Mary, the latest American sci-fi film starring Ryan Gosling, has garnered favorable reviews and performed admirably on the international stage. Tailored for IMAX, the film encountered hurdles in securing a substantial release in India, primarily due to the competition posed by Ranveer Singh’s Hindi film, Dhurandhar 2. Enthusiasts of Project Hail Mary have even started a petition advocating for more screenings and locations for the film. In response, some theaters in India have increased their showtimes.

In an exclusive interview, Priya Kansara, who lent her voice to Mary, the onboard computer of Hail Mary, shared her insights regarding the limited screen availability.

Priya Kansara Discusses Limited IMAX Screenings in India

Priya expressed her desire for Project Hail Mary to be available on all IMAX screens globally. She acknowledged that distributors often prioritize profitability and cater to their target demographics, which can differ significantly between regions like India, the US, UK, and China. "I can’t speak for those making business decisions based on profit. However, as a film lover, I hope everyone gets the chance to experience these films as intended," she stated.

Priya Kansara's Thoughts on Audience Petitions

Priya remarked, " Project Hail Mary is visually stunning on IMAX, and I believe it offers a unique experience. Those who watch it on their televisions later may regret not seeing it on a larger screen, as the visuals are extraordinary. It was designed for that scale. I was impressed to see petitions in India advocating for IMAX screenings. Many theaters responded to this demand due to the evident interest. It’s empowering to see audiences have a voice. If you want something and know others feel the same, speak up, and perhaps someone will listen. That was truly inspiring to see."

Overview of Project Hail Mary

Project Hail Mary made its debut in India on March 20, telling the tale of Ryland Grace, a school teacher who finds himself aboard an interstellar spacecraft with no memory of how he got there. Meanwhile, Dhurandhar 2 was released a day earlier, on March 19.