The upcoming sci-fi thriller Mercy promises to kick off the year with adrenaline-fueled storytelling and jaw-dropping visuals. Headlined by Chris Pratt and Rebecca Ferguson, the film is scheduled to hit theaters on January 23, and the newly released second official trailer has already set the internet buzzing.
Directed by visionary filmmaker Timur Bekmambetov, known for Wanted and Night Watch, Mercy blends intense courtroom drama with futuristic action. The ensemble cast features Annabelle Wallis, Kali Reis, Chris Sullivan, Kylie Rogers, Jeff Pierre, Rafi Gavron, Jamie McBride, and Kenneth Choi, ensuring a rich tapestry of performances.
The trailer wastes no time pulling viewers into its high-stakes narrative. Chris Pratt steps into the role of Detective Raven, an LAPD officer caught in a whirlwind of accusations and danger. The opening moments show Raven in a tense exchange with his partner before events spiral violently out of control. Moments later, he’s implicated not only in an incident involving his colleague but also in the shocking murder of his wife.
The twist? This isn’t a conventional courtroom drama. Set in a future where artificial intelligence controls the justice system, Raven must plead his case before an unwavering AI Judge — portrayed with chilling precision by Rebecca Ferguson. Her portrayal exudes authority, calm intensity, and an unshakable sense of order, making her a formidable force in the film’s narrative.
The trailer’s pacing is relentless, delivering rapid visuals that mirror the efficiency and cold logic of machine-led justice. Over the course of 90 minutes of in-film time, Raven must prove his innocence while grappling with secrets that might paint him in an even darker light. While the plot remains under wraps, the hints of moral ambiguity and hidden truths elevate the intrigue.
Visually, Mercy promises an immersive cinematic experience, having been shot for IMAX and presented in 3D. Both the score and the cinematography enhance the urgency of the unfolding events, making this a must-watch for fans of smart, gripping thrillers.
Backed by a screenplay from Marco van Belle and produced by Charles Roven, Robert Amidon, and Majd Nassif, Mercy positions itself as one of early 2026’s most anticipated releases.
If Bekmambetov’s past work is any indication, we can expect a razor-sharp blend of tension, spectacle, and thought-provoking commentary on justice in a technologically dominated future. For now, all we can do is mark our calendars — January 23 can’t come soon enough.
