Actor Chris Pratt has returned to the big screen with a hit, as his new AI-themed crime thriller Mercy leads the charge in theaters worldwide this weekend. The film, which explores a near-future where AI is used to predict and prevent crimes, has resonated with audiences during a time when AI is a major real-world topic.

Critics have praised Pratt’s performance as a detective caught in a moral dilemma when the AI system labels him as a future criminal. The movie's high-octane action sequences and thought-provoking plot have helped it overcome stiff competition from other January releases. Sony Pictures, the film's distributor, reported strong opening numbers in both US and international markets.

Despite its commercial success, Mercy has received mixed reviews for its scientific accuracy, with some tech experts calling the AI depictions "more fantasy than reality." However, for general audiences, the film serves as an entertaining exploration of technology and human agency. Pratt is already in talks for a sequel, given the strong audience reception.