In the latest installment of Screen Junkies' Movie Fights, three prominent film critics clashed over an intriguing question: Is Project Hail Mary the best sci-fi movie of the 2020s? The conversation quickly branched into broader debates, touching on the merits of other contenders like Dune: Part Two and Prey. Here's a deep dive into their arguments and what these films bring to the table.

The Case for Project Hail Mary

Film critic Kojandro staunchly supported Project Hail Mary, pointing out the film’s unique ability to blend hard science with deeply human storytelling. Based on Andy Weir’s book of the same name, Project Hail Mary reportedly captivated audiences not just with its compelling narrative but with its hopeful tone in an era defined by challenges.

Kojandro emphasized how the movie, led by Ryan Gosling, strikes a balance between science and fiction that feels authentic and awe-inspiring. Beyond its technical elements, he highlighted the film's emotional core: “It’s a beautiful buddy story,” he argued, referencing the dynamic between the lead character and an alien ally. For Kojandro, Project Hail Mary’s combination of escapism, science, and optimism places it above its contemporaries: “This movie uses sci-fi to encourage people to not just dream, but to think smarter and come together as humans.”

Kojandro also defended the film against comparisons to The Martian, another adaptation of an Andy Weir novel, asserting that Project Hail Mary builds upon similar themes but exceeds them with its artistry and emotional resonance.

Prey: Science Fiction Grounded in Survival

Eric Goldman shifted the conversation to Prey, a 2022 prequel to the Predator franchise. While Prey operates within an established sci-fi universe, Goldman celebrated the film’s ability to stand on its own. He praised its stripped-down plot, which follows a young Comanche warrior battling the technologically superior Predator in the 1700s, as “a remarkable reinvention of the franchise.”

Goldman offered a counterpoint to Kojandro’s optimism-heavy argument, focusing instead on the visceral thrills and grounded survival story Prey delivers. “Science fiction doesn’t have to be set in space. Sometimes, it comes to you,” he quipped. With its innovative storytelling, rich character development, and unique placement in historical context, Prey stands out as a high-water mark in sci-fi filmmaking.

However, Goldman acknowledged that Prey has faced its share of detractors. Some devoted Predator fans critiqued the film’s departure from the traditional action-heavy narrative of earlier entries. But for Goldman, Prey’s ability to highlight humanity’s enduring struggle against advanced technology made it a top contender for the best sci-fi film of the decade.

The Cinematic Achievement of Dune: Part Two

On the other side of the debate, John Roa championed Dune: Part Two. Directed by Denis Villeneuve, this sequel to the 2021 adaptation of Frank Herbert’s sci-fi epic has garnered widespread acclaim for its breathtaking visuals and layered exploration of power, religion, and hero worship. Roa pointed out that even legendary director Steven Spielberg hailed the Dune films as some of the greatest works of science fiction cinema.

For Roa, Dune: Part Two is more than just a movie—it’s an event. He underscored its relevance in today’s world, tackling themes of political division, cult worship, and the consequences of blindly following charismatic leaders. “It speaks to the dangers of religion and hero worship, and how that destroys factions and peace,” Roa argued.

The technical feats of Dune: Part Two were another central component of his case. Featuring cinematography by industry titan Greig Fraser and an ensemble cast that includes Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, and Javier Bardem, the film has already secured a place in the pantheon of cinematic achievements. Roa particularly highlighted the much-discussed scene of Chalamet’s character riding a colossal sandworm, a sequence he described as unmatched by anything in Project Hail Mary or Prey.

Sci-Fi as a Reflection of Our Times

Each critic’s argument reflected their perspective on what makes great sci-fi. Is it the ability to inspire hope and curiosity, as Kojandro suggested with Project Hail Mary? Or is it the capability to ground speculative fiction in relatable and immediate struggles, as Goldman asserted for Prey? Roa’s support for Dune: Part Two argued for the genre’s potential to comment on complex societal structures and the human condition at a grand scale.

The Verdict

While all three films bring something unique to the sci-fi table, the debate ultimately underscores the subjective nature of appreciating art. If you crave a story rooted in hope and camaraderie, Project Hail Mary might be your pick. For those who prefer edge-of-your-seat survival stories, Prey offers a gripping choice. If you’re drawn to sprawling epics that challenge societal norms, Dune: Part Two could be your top sci-fi film of the 2020s.

What’s clear is that the 2020s have been a fertile ground for science fiction. As the genre continues to evolve, films like Project Hail Mary, Prey, and Dune: Part Two remind us of its capacity to entertain, provoke thought, and inspire.