The hill I will die on: If Hollywood blockbusters must dabble in science, can’t they get the small stuff right? | Helen Pilcher
Helen Pilcher critiques the scientific inaccuracies in Hollywood films, particularly in the context of Project Hail Mary. She expresses frustration over small mistakes that undermine scientific credibility, such as improper centrifuge use. While she accepts broader narrative liberties, she insists that filmmakers should pay attention to the details that matter.
- ▪Helen Pilcher is a science writer who critiques scientific inaccuracies in films.
- ▪She highlights specific errors in Project Hail Mary, such as improper centrifuge use.
- ▪Pilcher believes that while narrative liberties are acceptable, filmmakers should not overlook important scientific details.
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Composite: Guardian Design/Getty ImagesView image in fullscreen Composite: Guardian Design/Getty ImagesThe hill I will die onScience fiction and fantasy filmsThe hill I will die on: If Hollywood blockbusters must dabble in science, can’t they get the small stuff right?Helen PilcherProject Hail Mary, Jurassic Park: from dino-mosquitoes to a spaceship’s roar, pointless mistakes on the scientific details make me winceSun 24 May 2026 06.30 EDTShareOn the advice of my teenage son, I recently went to the cinema to see Project Hail Mary. The film has science in it. I am a science writer and so he was convinced I would like it.Imagine my surprise partway through, however, when I found myself seething so hard I thought I would combust.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Guardian — Science.
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