James Gunn defends Chris Pratt's 'prayer' tweet to Kevin Smith

Feb. 27 (UPI) -- Filmmaker James Gunn has defended his Guardians of the Galaxy star Chris Pratt for sending prayers on Twitter to Kevin Smith after the director suffered a massive heart attack.

Pratt was met with backlash from some commentators on Twitter who noted that prayer would not be able to help Smith, similar to how social media users have told politicians that praying is not enough in the wake of mass shootings.

"So I just read Chris Pratt's tweet to Kevin Smith saying he would pray for him & made the mistake of reading the comments, many of which go off on Chris for saying he'd pray. I think people misunderstand the backlash against 'thoughts & prayers,'" Gunn said on Twitter as part of long response discussing the matter.

"There is nothing wrong with sending someone positive thoughts & prayers. But when this is coupled with inaction when action will benefit the situation, it's empty, If you're offering Parkland shooting survivors prayers, but are unwilling to deal with the problems of gun violence in this country in a practical way, those prayers are empty," he continued in reference to the recent mass shooting in Parkland, Fla. at a high school.

"But no one expects Chris Pratt to shoulder doctors out of the way and perform heart surgery on Kevin Smith. Nor does Kevin need Chris to pay his medical bills. So I think his prayers are appreciated, and about all he can do," Gunn said before noting how prayer and meditation have helped him throughout his life and career.

"If I am ever sick I will gratefully accept any of your thoughts and prayers. And will not be as grateful for some random fan knocking down my doctor and performing his own brand of kick ass surgery on me. Love to you all. Have a great week," Gunn concluded.

Smith announced on Monday that he was recovering in a hospital after suffering from a massive heart attack after performing a new standup special, Kevin Smith Live! at the Alex Theatre in Glendale, Calif.

"Kevin we don't know each other too good but I have loved you since Clerks and I'm praying my ass off for you cause I believe in the healing power of prayer. Can you please pray with me people!?" Pratt said at the time.