“Projet dernière chance”: The Box Office Surprise of 2026
With $321.7 million earned at the US box office and a global total reaching $642.1 million, “Projet dernière chance” stands as one of 2026’s biggest hits. Starring Ryan Gosling, the film currently ranks as the second highest-grossing title of the year in the United States, just behind “Super Mario Galaxy: The Movie” ($405.5 million) and ahead of “Michael” ($204 million so far). For an original movie—not tied to any existing series—that's an impressive feat.
Will Hollywood Bet Bigger on Original Stories?
Could this inspire more major studios to back big-budget, non-franchise projects? At least one major player is paying attention. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Netflix has secured the distribution rights for “Somewhere Out There,” a science fiction film directed by Shawn Levy.
Levy is one of Hollywood’s most in-demand directors, known for “Deadpool & Wolverine,” “The Adam Project,” and several episodes of “Stranger Things.” Most recently, he completed work on “Star Wars: Starfighter,” again starring Ryan Gosling.
Coming Up: “Somewhere Out There”
The screenplay for “Somewhere Out There” was written by Max Taxe, whose previous credits include “Moonshot.” Reports suggest this latest project will explore the emotional side of science fiction, with tones reminiscent of “Arrival” and “The Adam Project.” The film’s story follows a father who, mourning the loss of his partner, begins sending messages into space. According to US media outlets, a well-known actor is expected to play the lead role, though the official casting has yet to be announced. Levy’s past collaborations include stars like Ryan Reynolds, Ryan Gosling, Hugh Jackman, and Mark Ruffalo.
What’s Next for Star Wars—and Shawn Levy?
As of now, no start date for filming “Somewhere Out There” has been announced. In the meantime, “Star Wars: Starfighter” is slated for release in France on May 26, 2027. Starring alongside Ryan Gosling are Amy Adams, Mia Goth, Matt Smith, and Aaron Pierre. Jonathan Tropper, known as one of the creators of the TV series “Banshee,” wrote the film’s script.
For now, Hollywood is showing no signs of dialing back its cosmic ambitions—either at the box office or in the director’s chair.
