The new thriller film, Mercy, featuring Chris Pratt, immerses viewers in a tense narrative that explores the intersection of justice and artificial intelligence. Set in a slightly futuristic Los Angeles, the film presents a scenario where Pratt’s character, LAPD Detective Chris Raven, finds himself on trial for the murder of his wife in a court overseen by an AI judge named Maddox, portrayed by Rebecca Ferguson. With only 90 minutes to prove his innocence, Raven must navigate a convoluted legal landscape filled with evidence that seemingly condemns him.
The premise of Mercy introduces a high-stakes environment where the protagonist is not just battling for his life but also grappling with the implications of a judicial system increasingly reliant on technology. As Raven sits in a sparse room, he faces not only the weight of the evidence against him but also the expectations of being a law enforcement figure who previously arrested the first person tried in this AI-driven court.
Directed by Timur Bekmambetov and written by Marco van Belle, the film unfolds in real time, creating a sense of urgency as Raven races against the clock to gather evidence and call witnesses, including his partner, Jaq Diallo, played by Kali Reis. The film’s structure offers intriguing moments, particularly as Raven interacts with digital elements to sift through files and contact potential witnesses, maintaining visual engagement throughout.
Despite its compelling premise, Mercy is marred by several narrative inconsistencies. The rapid-fire review of videos and documents raises questions about the plausibility of the situation, particularly when the AI judge experiences technical glitches that hint at a broader conspiracy. These lapses are not sufficiently explained, undermining the film’s tension. The filmmakers attempt to justify these moments by referencing Raven’s struggle with sobriety, yet this provides only a limited rationale for his decisions and the unfolding events.
Additionally, the film’s performances leave much to be desired. Pratt’s portrayal of Raven lacks depth, especially when confined to a chair, resulting in a performance that often feels contrived. Ferguson’s role as the AI judge restricts her to a limited range of expression, oscillating between a mechanical presence and moments of unexpected empathy. Similarly, Kali Reis, hailed for her Emmy-nominated role in True Detective: Night Country, finds herself underutilized, with little opportunity to showcase her talent.
While Mercy may provide an entertaining escape for those willing to overlook its shortcomings, viewers who engage critically with the narrative may find themselves questioning the character motivations and the film’s treatment of AI. The film’s approach to its themes may resonate differently depending on the viewer’s perspective on technology and justice.
As audiences flock to theaters, Mercy stands as a reflection of contemporary anxieties about artificial intelligence, raising pertinent questions about accountability and the future of legal systems. Whether the film succeeds in delivering a satisfying thriller experience is left to individual interpretation, but it undeniably contributes to the ongoing discourse surrounding AI’s role in society.
