Amazon MGM Studios brought a tense, tech-focused showcase to New York Comic Con, offering attendees a first look at director Timur Bekmambetov’s upcoming sci-fi action thriller Mercy. Joined on stage by star Chris Pratt and Oscar-winning producer Charles Roven, the panel highlighted a high-concept premise that pits a human detective against an unyielding, automated justice system in a race against the clock.

Set in a near-future Los Angeles, the story places capital crimes in AI hands.The narrative follows Detective Christopher Raven, played by Pratt.Additionally, when Raven is accused of murdering his wife, he faces a high-tech interrogation chamber. He must prove his innocence to an advanced AI judge named Maddox, voiced by Rebecca Ferguson. A literal 90-minute countdown stands between him and execution. Raven must leverage networked devices and old-school investigative tactics to uncover the truth before time runs out. This backdrop contrasts with scenes at new york comic con.

During the presentation, Pratt discussed the unique physical and theatrical demands of the production. Shot in a claustrophobic interrogation set, the filmmakers opted for extended, uninterrupted takes, some lasting up to an hour, giving the shoot the fluid intensity of a stage play. Pratt described the experience as inherently grueling, noting that being physically restrained in the interrogation chair for long stretches brought an authentic sense of panic and isolation to his performance.

Bekmambetov, known for action films like Wanted and Night Watch, explained that the real-time structure reflects evolving technology. This design echoes modern anxieties about rapid tech changes. The director emphasized that AI integrates deeper into daily infrastructure. Moreover, he warned that society risks ceding critical ethical choices to automated systems. To mirror this pervasive digital surveillance visually, the production deployed bodycams, autonomous drones, and robotic camera rigs during filming. This choice aimed to capture a distinct, hyper-connected atmosphere. The themes feel relevant to discussions at events like new york comic con.

Producer Charles Roven reflected on how quickly the speculative script evolved into a timely reality. When screenwriter Marco van Belle pitched the project, algorithmic courts seemed distant science fiction. However, as real-world automated systems have advanced, the film’s 2029 setting feels grounded in debates. These issues include data privacy, automated decision-making, and systemic bias, topics discussed at events like the new york comic con.

Rounding out the supporting cast are Kali Reis as Raven’s police partner, alongside Annabelle Wallis, Chris Sullivan, and Kylie Rogers.

Moreover, by pairing a tight, real-time survival narrative with modern technological fears, Mercy aims to deliver a lean, suspenseful thriller.

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