Chris Pratt’s New Movie Is Already Being Roasted Online

Hollywood Celebrities
Roland Hannah
Chris Pratt’s new movie Mercy: futuristic trial, mixed reactions. [Image Source: NOSTRINGSATTACHEDSHOW]

Chris Pratt’s new movie, Mercy, has sparked sharp criticism on social media shortly after its trailer release, continuing the controversy surrounding the actor since his transition from comedic roles to big Hollywood productions. The science fiction film is scheduled to hit theaters in January 2024, as audiences prepare to judge whether Pratt can redeem his standing with this latest project.

The Storyline and Setting of Mercy

Mercy is set in the near future, specifically 2029, and revolves around an LAPD detective played by Chris Pratt. The character awakens strapped to an execution chair and finds himself accused of murdering his wife. He must then convince an advanced artificial intelligence system named Judge Maddox, portrayed by Rebecca Ferguson, of his innocence within a strict 90-minute timeframe. This AI acts as judge, jury, and executioner throughout the trial.

Social Media Reacts to the Film’s Trailer and Concept

Almost immediately after the unveiling of Mercy’s poster and trailer, many viewers expressed skepticism and criticism online. Some were puzzled by the film’s concept, highlighting its visual simplicity, which mostly features Pratt confined to a chair in a nearly empty room, engaging in what appears to be extended digital interactions. Observers found it unusual that such a minimalistic setting was intended for an IMAX release.

Several social media users compared the movie’s premise to the “e-Trial” sketch from the comedy series Tim and Eric Awesome Show Great Job!, suggesting the concept was not particularly original or compelling. There was also considerable sympathy expressed toward Rebecca Ferguson, who many felt deserved a better project given the perceived limitations of Mercy’s artistic merit.

Chris Pratt
Image of: Chris Pratt

Moreover, Pratt’s performance received notable criticism online, with some comments stating his portrayal seemed notably poor even based on the promotional poster alone.

Context Within Chris Pratt’s Career and Related Films

Chris Pratt’s shift from his beloved comedic character on Parks and Recreation to mainstream action and sci-fi roles has drawn mixed reactions, particularly since his public associations with a megachurch known for anti-LGBTQ+ views have influenced public perception. His recent filmography includes titles such as The Tomorrow War, Jurassic World: Dominion, and The Electric State, none of which restored his previous goodwill fully.

Mercy is produced by one of the producers behind the recent War of the Worlds remake starring Ice Cube, which was widely criticized and earned only a 4-percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes. That film similarly featured a protagonist confined mostly to a chair engaging with screens, a comparison that has fueled further doubt about Mercy’s potential success.

Anticipation and Uncertainty Ahead of the Release

While no one has yet seen Mercy in full, the pre-release reaction has been notably negative, reflecting anxiety and unease about whether the film will meet audience expectations. Despite the dismissive internet response, there is still a possibility that the movie might surprise viewers and offer a compelling experience, though hopes are tempered by the critical reception to its marketing materials.

Given Chris Pratt’s troubled standing with fans and the film’s unconventional format, Mercy’s performance at the box office and with critics will be closely watched as a potential turning point in Pratt’s evolving career.

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Roland Hannah
Roland Hannah