Chris Pratt‘s latest sci-fi film, Mercy, has received significant backlash from critics, leading to a dismal 19% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Released by Amazon MGM, 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 its intriguing premise, the reception has been overwhelmingly negative, with critics highlighting various flaws in the film’s execution.
Critics Spotlight Major Flaws in “Mercy”
The critical response to Mercy has focused on its weak script and thematic inconsistencies. Reviewers, such as Richard Crouse, have noted that the screenplay “feels as though it was written by AI,” indicating a lack of originality and depth. Others, including Nick Shager, described it as “the new year’s dreariest, and goofiest, film,” underscoring the film’s failure to deliver a compelling narrative.
The film’s exploration of artificial intelligence has also drawn criticism. Many reviewers observed that by the conclusion, it appears to endorse pro-AI sentiments, raising concerns about its portrayal of law enforcement and government authority. Gregory Nussen from Screen Rant articulated this sentiment, stating, “It’s difficult to come away from the film with any other understanding but that the filmmakers stand in full support of militarizing the police, crushing anti-government dissent and implementing AI and surveillance wherever it is possible.”
Another significant critique revolves around the limitations of the film’s concept. Much of the narrative follows Pratt’s character as he reviews footage to establish his innocence, which restricts the action and engagement typical of quality sci-fi thrillers. This screen-watching approach diminishes the film’s potential, drawing unfavorable comparisons to classics like Minority Report.
Performances and Audience Reception
Despite the negative reviews, some critics found redeeming qualities in Mercy, praising the performances of the cast, including Rebecca Ferguson. While the actors deliver solid performances, the film’s structure limits their ability to showcase their talents fully. The characterization of Ferguson’s AI character, described as cold and emotionless, further compounds the issue by stifling dynamic interactions that could have enhanced the storyline.
As viewers process the film, many have suggested that approaching Mercy as a mindless action spectacle may yield a more enjoyable experience. The film includes several twists and moments of action that, while not substantial, can entertain audiences seeking light entertainment. Critics caution that expecting high-quality storytelling from Mercy may lead to disappointment.
In summary, Mercy is currently playing in theaters and showcases a mix of action and sci-fi elements, although its critical reception suggests a struggle to resonate with audiences on a deeper level. With a runtime of 100 minutes and directed by Timur Bekmambetov, the film attempts to blend tension with futuristic themes but ultimately falls short of expectations set by its genre predecessors.
