Where to start
The Martian
2 versions · originally a film, 2015
The Martian is a gripping survivalist odyssey that celebrates human ingenuity through the lens of rigorous, science-based problem solving.
✦ Most fans start here
The Martian (2015)

The original movie
The Martian
Ridley Scott · Film · 2015
The Martian (2015) movie delivers a visually immersive cinematic experience, utilizing Ridley Scott’s direction to bring the desolate beauty of Mars and Mark Watney’s high-stakes technical rescue mission to life.
2015 book
✦ Start hereThe Martian
Andy Weir · Book · 2015
The Martian (2015) book provides the definitive source material, offering a deeper dive into the protagonist's internal monologue and the complex, granular scientific calculations required to survive on the planet.
Common questions
Is The Martian movie based on a book?
Yes, the 2015 movie The Martian is an adaptation of the 2015 book titled The Martian. The film follows the narrative established in the original novel, focusing on the survival story of the protagonist stranded on Mars.
Should I read the book if I have already seen The Martian movie?
Reading the 2015 book The Martian provides additional depth to the scientific processes and internal monologue of the character that were condensed for the 2015 movie. The source material offers a more detailed perspective on the technical challenges faced throughout the story.
What is the difference between The Martian movie and the book?
The 2015 movie The Martian is a screen adaptation of the 2015 book The Martian. While the film captures the primary plot points and survival stakes of the original text, the book contains more extensive technical explanations and character reflections that were adapted for the visual medium.
How long is The Martian movie compared to the book?
The 2015 movie The Martian has a runtime of approximately 144 minutes. The 2015 book The Martian is a full-length novel. Because the film is an adaptation of the book, the reading experience generally takes longer than watching the movie version.