At a Glance
- Mercy is a 2026 film that blends AI justice with a ticking-clock thriller.
- The story follows LAPD cop Chris Raven, who has 90 minutes to prove his innocence.
- Critics describe the movie as dull, off-putting, and a poor take on AI ethics.
- Why it matters: It shows how Hollywood can mishandle complex tech themes.
The 2026 film Mercy stars Chris Pratt, Rebecca Ferguson, and Annabelle Wallis. It is directed by Timur Bekmambetov and runs for 101 min with a PG-13 rating. The movie attempts to explore AI-driven justice but ends up feeling stale.
Plot Overview
The film opens with a futuristic courtroom where a single AI system acts as judge, jury, and executioner. Judge Maddox, voiced by Rebecca Ferguson, delivers death sentences without human emotion. Chris Raven, played by Chris Pratt, is accused of murdering his wife and must fight a machine that assumes guilt by default.
AI Judge and Courtroom
Judge Maddox’s system uses a vast database of footage and data to decide cases. The system presumes anyone who enters the courtroom is guilty. The tension rises as the AI’s algorithmic due process replaces human deliberation.
Chris Pratt’s Race Against Time
Chris Raven is strapped to a chair that doubles as the execution device. A literal countdown clock shows he has 90 minutes to prove his innocence. The film focuses on his frantic attempts to gather evidence and contact allies.
Setting and Atmosphere
The setting is a near-future Los Angeles inspired by tech-bro fantasies. The city is portrayed as a dystopian hellscape filled with homeless junkies and criminals. The film juxtaposes high-tech helicopters with a hard copy of The Anarchist Cookbook.
Director and Production
Timur Bekmambetov, known for Night Watch, Day Watch, and Profile, helms the project. The director’s past work demonstrates a capacity for stylized visuals. However, critics argue that his style cannot salvage a weak script.
Cinematography
Cinematographer Khalid Mohtaseb employs a mix of wide shots and nausea-inducing body-cam footage. The visual style feels disjointed, with some scenes lacking tension. The use of green-screen effects contributes to the film’s overall flatness.
Reception and Critique
Reviewers label the film as dull, doltish, and off-putting. They criticize its lack of character development for both the AI judge and the protagonist. The film’s premise feels reactionary and intellectually dishonest.
- The film’s countdown clock feels like a threat to audiences.
- The narrative relies heavily on red-herring twists.
- Chris Pratt’s performance is hampered by static camera work.
Key Takeaways
- Mercy attempts to tackle AI ethics but fails to deliver.
- The film’s pacing and visual execution undermine its concept.
- The setting and cast are underutilized.
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Final Thoughts
While Mercy had the potential to spark conversation about AI in the courtroom, it ultimately falls short. The combination of a weak script, disjointed visuals, and a rushed plot leaves audiences disappointed.
