Chris Pratt’s latest film, Mercy, has received overwhelmingly negative reviews since its release in theaters on January 23, 2026. The film features Pratt as a detective racing against time to convince an AI judge of his innocence in the murder of his wife. Despite the star’s previous successes in franchises like Guardians of the Galaxy and Jurassic World, critics have not held back in their assessments of this new sci-fi thriller produced by Amazon MGM.
The critical reception has been stark, with Mercy‘s score on Rotten Tomatoes plummeting to just 19% based on feedback from 57 critics. This score highlights the film’s significant shortcomings, particularly in its script. Notably, critic Richard Crouse remarked that the screenplay “feels as though it was written by AI,” pointing to a lack of originality and depth. Similarly, Nick Shager criticized the film as “the new year’s dreariest, and goofiest, film.”
Critics Highlight Script and Thematic Issues
Several reviews have raised concerns about the film’s handling of its themes surrounding artificial intelligence. As the narrative unfolds, viewers are left with the impression that the film may inadvertently be pro-AI. Gregory Nussen from Screen Rant noted that it is challenging to interpret the filmmakers as anything but supportive of militarized policing and surveillance, given the film’s portrayal of government and law enforcement.
Moreover, the film’s concept limits its potential for excitement and engagement. Much of the story centers on Pratt’s character viewing footage to establish his innocence, a choice that detracts from the film’s ability to create tension. Critics have pointed out that this approach reduces the film’s effectiveness, making it a less engaging experience, particularly when compared to classics like Minority Report.
While the film’s execution has been called into question, some reviewers have found redeeming qualities in the twists, action sequences, and moments of absurdity. Many suggest that the best way to enjoy Mercy is to treat it as light entertainment rather than expecting a high-quality cinematic experience. This perspective allows viewers to appreciate the film for its action, despite its many flaws.
Overall Reception and Future Implications
Despite the harsh criticism, the film’s cast, including Rebecca Ferguson, has received some praise for their performances. However, the film’s structure, which keeps characters largely inactive, limits their ability to shine. The lack of dynamic interactions among the cast has been cited as a significant factor in the film’s overall failure to resonate with audiences.
As the conversation around Mercy continues, it serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by even the most prominent stars in the industry. Chris Pratt’s experience with this film might influence his future projects, as both audiences and critics remain vigilant about the quality of storytelling in the evolving landscape of science fiction cinema.
