Amazon MGM has never been shy about spending big. The studio recently announced a new sci fi adventure that stars Ryan Gosling as a lone astronaut. The film, based on Andy Weir’s bestseller, is expected to cost far more than the $150 million that early reports suggested.
Why the Budget May Reach $175 Million
Industry sources tell us that the production company behind the movie spent about £106 million by the end of 2024. When converted to dollars that amount sits between $130 million and $140 million. That figure only covers the time before post production began. Because the movie relies heavily on visual effects, the final cost could rise to $175 million. This estimate aligns with the typical price of a heavy CGI film released in 2025.
What the Numbers Mean for the Studio
A budget of this size pushes the break even point to roughly $500 million worldwide. Amazon MGM knows the risk, but it also sees a huge opportunity. The studio hopes the film will capture the same cultural buzz that made The Martian a worldwide hit. The new trailer already shows a tone and feel that fans of The Martian will recognize.
The screenplay was written by Drew Goddard, who earned an Oscar nomination for adapting The Martian. He teams up with directors Phil Lord and Chris Miller, a duo known for delivering crowd pleasing movies. Their combined track record gives the studio confidence that the investment will pay off.
From Rights Purchase to Release Date
Andy Weir sold the movie rights to MGM in early 2020 for about $3 million. Since then the project has moved through development, casting, and now production. Amazon MGM plans to launch the film in theaters on March 20 2026. The studio markets the movie as a major theatrical event that will draw audiences worldwide.
If the movie matches the box office performance of The Martian, the $175 million budget could turn into a huge profit. The combination of a popular author, a bankable star, and a proven creative team makes the gamble look smart. Fans and investors alike will watch closely as the release date approaches.
Source: World of Reel
