Families looking for a new movie to watch this weekend may want to consider Mercy, a sci-fi thriller arriving in theaters this Friday, January 23, 2026.
Starring Chris Pratt and Rebecca Ferguson, the film is rated PG-13, making it more accessible for teens than many recent thrillers — though it still comes with some important content warnings for parents.
Why Mercy Is Rated PG-13
The Motion Picture Association (MPA) has rated Mercy PG-13, meaning parents are strongly cautioned that some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.
According to rating details, the film includes:
- Violence and bloody images, tied to action scenes and the film’s murder-trial storyline
- Drug content and teen smoking, which are shown on screen
- Some strong language, though not at R-rated levels
While the movie avoids graphic sexual content or extreme gore, its themes and intensity may still be unsettling for younger viewers.
Mercy Movie Parents Guide
This film contains frequent and intense content that may be unsuitable for younger viewers. Much of the danger stems from reckless behavior, criminal activity, and substance abuse, all of which place innocent people at risk. Parents should be aware that the tone is aggressive and emotionally charged throughout.
Violence & Peril
Violence is a major element of the film and often occurs suddenly and chaotically. Reckless driving leads to serious car accidents, placing innocent bystanders in danger, including scenes where bodies are thrown through the air. Physical confrontations are common and include fistfights with punching, pushing, and shoving. Characters are shown being attacked with weapons, including a scene where a character is struck in the face with a baton and later tased by authorities. Kidnapping imagery is also present and treated seriously.
There is a stabbing incident that is not shown on screen, but the aftermath and consequences are discussed in disturbing detail. A victim’s body is shown at a crime scene, reinforcing the gravity of the violence. While some acts occur off-screen, the emotional and psychological impact is strongly emphasized, which may be upsetting for sensitive viewers.
Language
Strong language is present throughout the film. The word “f–k” is used once, while “shit” appears several times. Additional profanity includes “ass,” “bitch,” “damn,” “hell,” and “piss.” God’s name is used in vain on multiple occasions, including three instances where it is paired with “damn.” Although the language is not consistent, it often appears during moments of anger, stress, or confrontation.
Mature Themes & Substance Use
The film explores several mature themes that may not be appropriate for younger audiences. The main character struggles with alcohol dependency and is frequently shown drinking in bars. Alcohol use is tied directly to violent and reckless behavior, highlighting the destructive consequences of addiction. Drug content plays a significant role in the story, including methamphetamine manufacturing and use, which is discussed and depicted as part of the plot. Brief marijuana use is also shown.
Additional mature themes include criminal lifestyles, moral decline, and a reference to infidelity. These elements contribute to a gritty, adult-focused narrative that emphasizes poor choices and their fallout rather than offering lighter or redemptive moments.
Overall Guidance
Due to its strong violence, criminal activity, substance abuse, and persistent mature themes, this film is best suited for mature teens and adults. Parental discretion is strongly advised, especially for viewers sensitive to violence, drug content, or depictions of addiction.
What the Movie Is About
Set in the near future, Mercy explores a world where artificial intelligence plays a role in the justice system.
Pratt stars as a detective accused of murdering his wife. To survive, he must prove his innocence to an unforgiving AI judge, played by Ferguson. The twist: he has just 90 minutes to clear his name before the machine delivers its final verdict.
The film unfolds as a high-pressure race against time, blending science fiction ideas with courtroom drama and action-thriller elements.
Is Mercy Appropriate for Teens?
- Children under 12: Likely not ideal. The film’s focus on murder, punishment, and violence may be too intense or frightening.
- Teens 13 and up: Generally yes. The PG-13 rating suggests it stays within the boundaries of a standard action thriller, without explicit sexual content or extreme violence.
Parents should still be aware of scenes involving smoking and drug use, which the rating board specifically highlighted.
Final Takeaway for Parents
Mercy appears to be a solid, teen-friendly sci-fi thriller, especially for families with older teens who enjoy tense, futuristic stories. While it contains violence and mature themes, it remains far less graphic than R-rated thrillers.
For parents seeking a weekend theater outing with teenagers — particularly fans of Chris Pratt — Mercy is shaping up to be a safe and exciting choice.
