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[Editor’s note: The following contains spoilers for Project Hail Mary.]
Summary
Much like the visionary directors behind Project Hail Mary, Phil Lord and Chris Miller, audiences have seen the powerful collaboration between author Andy Weir and screenwriter Drew Goddard on screen, even before critics began raving about Ryan Gosling‘s breathtaking space mission. In 2015, their first seven-time Academy Award-nominated alliance on The Martian showed audiences what could be done with a whip-smart script and the guts to put it to screen, and they’re ready to recreate that magic again.
Project Hail Mary is topping the charts with Gosling starring as Ryland Grace, a middle school teacher on a mission to save worlds with his cohort, a rock being and engineer Grace affectionately dubs “Rocky” (James Ortiz). The movie also stars Oscar nominee Sandra Hüller, The Bear‘s Lionel Boyce, Milana Vayntrub, and Ken Leung.
In this interview with Steve Weintraub, Weir and Goddard discuss their interest in a third team-up, how Gosling got involved with the project, and Weir’s approach to writing epic science fiction. Goddard shares the biggest lessons learned while working on The Martian, the pair discuss why Project Hail Mary‘s on-screen ending had to have minor adjustments, and tease what’s next for them.
COLLIDER: After watching The Martian and now watching Project Hail Mary: You two need to do more together.
ANDY WEIR: That works for me
DREW GODDARD: We agree.
More. And it needs to be more than every 17 years.
GODDARD: Absolutely. From your mouth to God’s ears. Yes.
WEIR: All you’ve got to do is make sure studios are willing to give us, like, $150, $200 million to make a movie, and we’d be happy to just keep cranking ‘em out.
GODDARD: Also, you need to keep writing faster.
WEIR: I need to write faster.
GODDARD: But then again, I’m not the fastest either. [Laughs]
WEIR: Yeah, yeah, yeah. So we waited for him. We had to wait months for him. We weren’t interested in having any other screenwriter do this, so we actually just held up the project because he was busy on something else. Our list of potential screenwriters was one: Drew Goddard.
GODDARD: Thank god they waited.
I say again, thank you. I really mean this when I say the movie is spectacular, and in IMAX, it’s just incredible.
WEIR: Spectacularer?
The IMAX experience, when it goes full frame, is really just like, “My god, this is why I go to the movie theater.”
GODDARD: Honestly, I hadn’t seen the finished version until last week at the full IMAX. I’ve watched this movie hundreds of times at this point, and I felt like I was seeing it for the first time. It’s stunning. You just see the majesty of what Chris [Miller] and Phil [Lord] were able to do. It was a magical experience.
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Getting it into real specifics, [Andy], you sent this to Ryan [Gosling] in 2020 and said, “I’d like you to be the star, and I’d like you to produce.”
WEIR: Didn’t quite work that way. I think Ryan approached us. Or I did not personally do any of that. MGM, which at the time was just MGM before Amazon bought them, I think maybe approached talent with it, but Ryan was the one who said, “I want to do this.” So, that’s even better.
When you were writing the book, did you envision a certain actor in mind? How does that work?
WEIR: So there are two things to say on that. First off, I don’t have a very visual imagination, so in my mind, I just see sort of blobs of characters, blobs of this, blobs of that. When I’d finished the book, I couldn’t have told you what color Ryland’s hair was or what color his eyes were or anything like that. When I’m writing a book, and this is advice I give to any writers, you’re writing a book. Don’t think about movie adaptations. Don’t do that. If you want to write a movie, write a screenplay. Go for it. But if you’re writing a book, take advantage of the enormous space and infinite canvas you have on the book. Don’t try to think about things in terms of a potential adaptation.
What did you learn making The Martian in terms of the screenplay that you took with you to this, that sort of helped give you confidence in certain scenes? What were those big lessons learned?
GODDARD: I think the biggest lesson from The Martian was we learned from the audience that you don’t need to dumb it down. In fact, the audience likes it when you speak up to them, when you assume they’re smart enough to figure it out. That just gave us strength. Because I think you have this natural feeling of, “Well, we need to make sure everything gets explained,” and we learned it’s okay if you don’t understand everything, because audiences prefer that, because then they can learn. People love to learn, right? It’s part of the movie. This movie is a celebration of teaching, and it’s like, “Don’t be afraid. Just put it out there, and the audience will come to it.”
With the ending of the book, was it always that ending, and how did you come to that? There are slight changes in the movie ending, so how did you determine what you wanted to do?
WEIR: Well, for writing the book, I knew what the last scene was going to be before I wrote the first words. I absolutely knew that’s how the book was going to end. There was never any other option in my mind. That is exactly how I wanted it to end. As for the film adaptation, I don’t know how spoilery we’ve been getting, but I think it’s exactly the same.
GODDARD: There are some minor differences, for sure.
It’s very, very close.
WEIR: Very minor.
GODDARD: It’s funny because there are like four scenes in the book that I was like, “Oh, I’ve never seen anything like this. This is why I want to do this.” The ending is definitely one of them. I also knew this was going to take some fights. People are not going to want this because people get scared when anything’s different, right? So we had to sort of gently remind our studios along the way of why this ending was so special and powerful. I think they did come around, and thank god they did. But any changes that were within it were to maximize the effect of the ending.
You’re making this on a budget, obviously, and you have a lot of money, but it’s never enough. So when you’re writing the screenplay, how cognizant are you in terms of budget?
GODDARD: It’s always in the back of my head because I want to make sure we can do it. The problem is that Chris and Phil are so visionary, and they come from animation, so they always figure they can figure it out. They always do. So, I think that push-pull between us led to what is on the screen. I cannot say enough about the visuals they put on the screen. I was there, and I still don’t know how human beings did it.
I said to Chris and Phil that they need to make more live-action movies. They’re incredibly talented.
GODDARD: Without question.
I obviously have to ask you as a fan, what are you currently writing or thinking about? Are you writing something that is not being talked about? What’s going on?
WEIR: I’m working on my next book now. I’m not talking about it publicly. I can tell you it’s science fiction, and it’s another standalone story. It’s not a sequel to anything I’ve written.
How long ago did you start writing?
WEIR: Well, this one I probably started about a year ago, and it hasn’t been going very fast because of a combination of duties on the Project Hail Mary film and having a toddler. So, those two things. [Laughs]
GODDARD: It does slow things down.
WEIR: It slows things down. [Laughs]
What else are you working on this year?
GODDARD: Right now, it is all Hail Mary all the time, so I am excited for this movie to come out.
Project Hail Mary is in theaters and IMAX now.
March 20, 2026
156 Minutes
Christopher Miller, Phil Lord
Drew Goddard, Andy Weir
Ryan Gosling, Amy Pascal, Andy Weir, Aditya Sood, Christopher Miller, Phil Lord, Rachel O’Connor
After winning the Best Actor Academy Award for his performance in Christopher Nolan‘s Oppenheimer a couple of years ago, Cillian Murphy has had a rather interesting string of releases. Only one out of his three post-Oscar films, Small Things Like These, was able to secure a theatrical release. But it came and went without making much impact. Two others were released directly on Netflix. While the first, Steve, didn’t exactly set the charts on fire, Murphy’s second Netflix movie in a row seems to be having no problem with attracting audiences. It was a sure thing after all, even if it didn’t immediately scream post-Oscar passion project. The movie earned positive reviews, and was given a limited theatrical run in the United Kingdom a few weeks before its Netflix debut on March 20.
A report suggested that Netflix could have made as much as $50 million in the U.K. alone by giving the film a proper theatrical run, as opposed to the token release that it ultimately received. In its first weekend in British theaters, the movie outgrossed Scream 7 and The Bride!, which were playing in a significantly higher number of venues. The crime drama serves as a follow-up to one of Netflix’s most popular shows, Peaky Blinders, which aired six seasons from 2013 to 2022 and has since established itself as a fan-favorite. The show charted the trials and tribulations of an outlaw family in early 20th-century England. A follow-up series is currently in the works as well.
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The movie in question, of course, is Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man. It also features Rebecca Ferguson, Tim Roth, and Barry Keoghan, alongside returning players from the series. It’s directed by Tom Harper, who previously worked with Netflix on the would-be franchise-starter Heart of Stone, starring Gal Gadot. The Immortal Man holds a “Certified Fresh” 92% score on the aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, where the critics’ consensus reads, “Capping off Tommy Shelby’s story with grit and swagger, The Immortal Man is a satisfying conclusion to Peaky Blinders that also stands tall on its own self-contained terms.” Unsurprisingly, it was the number one movie across Netflix on its opening day, both domestically and worldwide. According to FlixPatrol, The Immortal Man unseated holdover champion War Machine, starring Alan Ritchson, from the streamer’s number one spot. Stay tuned to Collider for more updates.
March 6, 2026
112 Minutes
Tom Harper
Steven Knight
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“I saw you Nicky.”
Buffy the Vampire Slayer star Nicholas Brendon is dead at age 54.
“We are heartbroken to share the passing of our brother and son, Nicholas Brendon,” the actor’s family told Us Weekly in a Friday, March 20, statement, noting that Brendon died in his sleep of “natural causes.” (The Hollywood Reporter was the first to report the news.)
“Most people know Nicky for his work as an actor and for the characters he brought to life over the years. In recent years, Nicky has found his passion in painting and art,” the statement continued. “Nicky loved to share his enthusiastic talent with his family, friends and fans. He was passionate, sensitive, and endlessly driven to create. Those who truly knew him understood that his art was one of the purest reflections of who he was.”
Brendon’s family shared that while it is “no secret” he “had struggles in the past,” he was “on medications and treatment to manage his diagnosis and he was optimistic about the future at the time of his passing.”
“Our family asks for privacy during this time as we grieve his loss and celebrate the life of a man who lived with intensity, imagination, and heart,” the statement concluded. “Thank you to everyone who has shown love and support.”
Brendon was best known for his role as Xander Harris on Buffy, which he starred on for seven seasons alongside Sarah Michelle Gellar, Alyson Hannigan, David Boreanaz, Anthony Head and more. He also appeared in other various TV and film projects up until 2021.
In 2023, Brendon revealed he had suffered a heart attack and had been diagnosed with a congenital heart defect, as well as cauda equina syndrome. He had undergone several spinal surgeries prior to his death.
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Spring hits and suddenly everything in your closet feels too heavy, too structured . . . or just not cute anymore. If you want to look put-together without squeezing into anything stiff or clingy, we get it! The good news? Cute, comfy sundresses that actually flatter are everywhere on Amazon right now.
Below, we found 17 loose, slimming spring sundresses that skim in all the right places — and never feel restrictive. Think smocked bodices that define your waist without digging in, breezy T-shirt maxis that feel like loungewear and flowy wrap styles that move with you — not against you. Whether you’re headed to brunch, a beach walk or just running errands, these are the everyday dresses you’ll reach for on repeat — and styles start at just $10!
1. Our Favorite: Throw on this floral mini dress in sage green and you’re out the door in seconds. The sleeveless cut keeps you cool, and the pockets are genuinely useful.
2. Has Pockets: Tired of sundresses that cling in the wrong places? This loose V-neck midi dress has a pleated design that skims your body, plus it has pockets.
3. Vacation-Ready: Looking for spring sundresses with vacation energy? This boho V-neck mini dress has a breezy Italian-style print that packs well and photographs even better.
4. Quite The Charmer: If you want a dress that defines your waist without a belt, the smocked bodice on this ruffle hem mini dress does the work for you. It’s also comfy enough for all-day wear.
5. Deal Alert: Want a breezy warm-weather dress without spending much? This bohemian floral dress is now 33% off (and just $10), and has a loose silhouette that works as a cover-up too.
6. Pop of Color: If your closet is full of neutrals, this bright floral sundress in yellow shakes things up. The square neckline and flowy skirt keep it flattering without feeling tight anywhere.
7. Must-Have Maxi: This lilac T-shirt maxi dress has a loose fit, a side split and pockets. The comfy fabric feels like your favorite tee but gives you full-length coverage.
8. Figure-Flattering: The wrap silhouette on this floral A-line sundress creates a defined waist with a V-neck that elongates your frame. The light green floral print feels fresh for spring outfits.
9. Resort-Ready: Packing for a cruise or beach trip? This flowy boho maxi with its tropical print and skinny straps takes up almost no suitcase space and looks effortlessly pulled together.
10. Fabulously Flowy: If you love maxi dresses but hate looking shapeless, the smocked bodice on this floral navy sundress cinches at the top while the skirt flows freely.
11. Striped Stunner: Grab coffee or browse a bookstore in this casual striped dress with cute ruffle sleeves. The loose cut and soft fabric make it one of those easy, throw-on-and-go picks.
12. Picnic Perfection: Pack a basket, grab a blanket and wear this flowy gingham maxi with its smocked bodice and ruffle details. It practically screams sunny Saturday afternoon in the park.
13. Very Versatile: Finding a dress that works for both work and weekends is tough. This sage green T-shirt maxi with pockets and a crew neck pulls it off with — and with a relaxed, polished silhouette.
14. Prettiest Prints: If you’ve been searching for slimming spring sundresses with prints that actually look curated, this floral spaghetti strap maxi delivers. Plus, the V-neck adds a flattering vertical line.
15. Everyday Ease: School pickup, quick lunch or a doctor’s appointment: this floral pink midi dress with its wrap shape and pockets handles your whole Tuesday.
16. Comfort MVP: Some days you just want to be comfortable. This cap sleeve maxi dress with pockets and a floral print lets you feel like you’re in loungewear while looking completely presentable.
17. Boho Beauty: Want a dress that’s loose through the body but still has some shape? This printed V-neck mini with its tiered babydoll silhouette and button-up front gives you both for spring.
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Christina Applegate is opening up about her thoughts on death and how it has shaped her outlook in life. The actress, who was diagnosed with MS in 2021, has already made arrangements when the time comes, and shared that she has already secured three burial plots as she continues to navigate personal challenges and reflects on what matters most.

On March 19, the 54-year-old actress was on NPR’s “Wild Card with Rachel Martin” podcast, wherein she talked about living with multiple sclerosis. When asked how often she thinks about death, Applegate answered, “Every day.”
“‘Cause it’s looming. I mean, it looms for all of us,” she continued. Applegate says that even though death will come for all of us, it might be different for someone like her, who is living with a condition that currently has no cure. “For people who have a disease like this, you never know, you know?” she said.
According to the Mayo Clinic, MS is an autoimmune disease wherein the protective covering of the nerves is attacked. It may cause weakness, numbness, lack of coordination, and even cognitive issues.

With the possibility of death always on her mind, Applegate said that she has already bought three burial plots for her family. She didn’t specify where the location is, but said it was a “pretty” place, and she jumped at the chance to purchase the plots when she found out they were available.
Applegate candidly talked about the place, saying that she needed to choose a type of tree that would be planted there. “They’re going to plant a tree there ’cause it’s really sunny. And I want my visitors to not, you know, be sweating,” she told the host.
As for why she decided to purchase the plots, she said that it’s one less thing her family has to deal with in the future.

Despite death being on her mind daily, Applegate said that she’s not “comfortable” thinking about it. The thought of leaving her child behind is devastating, and that makes her “scared” of death.
“I’m really afraid of it because of her,” referring to her 15-year-old daughter Sadie, whom she shares with husband Martyn LeNoble. The actress became emotional as she said, “I can’t even talk about, like, I don’t know what her life’s going to be like, and you don’t know when it’s going to be – could be, like, anytime.”
In February, as The Blast previously reported, the actress shared an update about her health and said she mostly spent her days in bed. However, she still makes the effort to bring her daughter to school because that’s the only time they can be alone by themselves. Applegate described it as her “favorite thing to do.”
Applegate shared her multiple sclerosis diagnosis with the public in August 2021, writing on X that she had been diagnosed with MS a few months prior. “It’s been a tough road. But as we all know, the road keeps going. Unless some a-shole blocks it,” she wrote.
Following her revelation, Applegate attended events walking with the help of a cane. She was one of the presenters at the 2024 Emmy Awards, wherein she poked fun at herself by telling the audience who gave her a standing ovation, “Oh my God, you’re totally shaming me with disability by standing up.”
Applegate started a podcast called “MeSsy” with fellow actress Jamie-Lynn Sigler, who is also living with MS. In one of the episodes, the actress detailed her struggles with the disease, sharing that at one point, she was screaming in bed because of pain.

Applegate was in the middle of filming the third season of the Netflix series “Dead to Me” when she was diagnosed with MS. Production was paused so she could seek treatment, and she eventually returned to finish shooting. However, season 3, which premiered in 2022, was the show’s last.
Afterward, Applegate took a step back from her acting career due to MS. In a Vanity Fair interview in 2023, she acknowledged that “Dead to Me” may have been her final acting work because of the nature of her disease. “This is a progressive disease. I don’t know if I’m going to get worse,” she stated.
Despite stepping away from on-screen roles, Applegate has worked on other projects, including voice-over work, podcasting, and writing. Her No. 1 New York Times bestselling memoir, “You With the Sad Eyes,” was released on March 3.
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Manhattanites take Montana in “Yellowstone” creator Taylor Sheridan’s star-studded drama.
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Shamone?
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The E! documentary features several incendiary claims about “The Price Is Right” host Bob Barker, who died in 2023.
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From the beginning, Tommy’s story had a specific end.
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