Many people are worried about the rise of AI, particularly those working in film, as it raises questions about jobs and copyright. However, the team behind the new movie Mercy – director Timur Bekmambetov and actress Kali Reis – believe we can navigate these challenges together. Their sci-fi thriller actually explores this very idea, featuring an AI judge deciding whether Chris Raven (played by Chris Pratt) is guilty or innocent.
This week’s episode of Debunking AI – where ScreenRant pits AI responses against real people’s – felt particularly relevant. What made it even better was that the guests had thoughtful opinions about AI, likely because of their experience working on a project like Mercy. They also shared interesting insights about their co-workers, particularly the movie’s star.
Bekmambetov chose Pratt for the role because he portrays a relatable, human quality. This is important because the film deliberately leaves the question of whether or not his character killed his wife unanswered. Pratt’s performance shows vulnerability, making him sympathetic even though the details of his arrest make it hard to know if he’s guilty. This ambiguity is where Rebecca Ferguson’s character, an AI judge, becomes crucial to the story.
Reis praised Pratt as a wonderful colleague, especially considering she’s new to acting after a successful career in another field. She said it’s refreshing to work with someone so professional and kind, and highlighted that Pratt is remarkably down-to-earth and doesn’t let ego get in the way.
He’s a really energetic and approachable person who genuinely cares about what everyone thinks. We’re all working towards the same objectives, and he creates a comfortable environment where people can do their best work. He also values everyone’s contributions and has a great sense of humor.
Ultimately, Reis expressed her enthusiasm for future collaborations with both her co-star, Timur, and the director, Chris, stating she’d “love to work with them again.” Bekmambetov felt the same way and shared an idea for a new script – originally conceived by Stan Lee – that he’d like to cast Reis in once it’s fully developed.
I met Stan Lee at Comic-Con in San Diego, and he shared a story about growing up during the Great Depression. He described being amazed by the traveling circuses he saw as a boy, and it struck me that his superheroes were inspired by those circuses. Essentially, his characters – with their incredible strength and agility – were based on the weightlifters and acrobats he remembered from his childhood.
Okay, so I finally got my hands on the script! It’s for a movie called Carnival of Killers – a really wild concept, actually. It’s a sci-fi flick about aliens invading during the Great Depression, but it’s got this weird, cool thread running through it about circles and, get this, athletes and fighters. Honestly, I think it could be perfect for Kali. It really plays to her strengths.
Timur Bekmambetov has been developing a project inspired by Carnival of Killers since 2021, and it’s expected to begin production soon with a suitable cast.
The Mercy team’s overall opinion on AI is that it’s still developing and requires a cautious approach. Director Bekmambetov put it well, saying, “Dogs take after their owners,” and Reis expanded on that idea.
It’s a learning process, much like training a dog. Some dogs are naturally predisposed to certain behaviors, but ultimately, it comes down to how they’re raised. Consistent care, exercise, and training shape their behavior, and that’s always the key. I’m gradually understanding this and doing my best, taking things one step at a time.
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2026-01-22 01:31