Mercy (2026) is an upcoming American science fiction thriller directed by visionary filmmaker Timur Bekmambetov, best known for action-driven hits like Wanted and the innovative Hardcore Henry. Written by Marco van Belle, the movie dives into a chilling, near-future world where the rise in violent crime has led to the creation of an AI-controlled justice system.
The story unfolds in Los Angeles, 2029, and follows Detective Chris Raven (played by Chris Pratt), who suddenly becomes the accused in a murder trial for the death of his wife. His case, however, is decided not by a human judge but by Judge Maddox (portrayed by Rebecca Ferguson)—a hyper-intelligent AI system he once helped design.
Featuring a confined 90-minute real-time countdown and sleek, tech-driven visuals, the film explores guilt, justice, and the limits of artificial morality. Mercy is slated for a theatrical release on January 23, 2026, marking Amazon MGM Studios’ continued investment in large-scale cinema experiences.
Mercy Age Rating
Mercy is rated MPAA PG-13 for violence, bloody images, some strong language, drug content and teen smoking. This single-paragraph summary restates the official MPAA rating and the reasons cited by the distributor. The PG-13 rating signals that some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. Parents should note the combination of visual blood, tense peril, drug references, and smoking that together push the film to this classification.
Violence & Peril
Violence in Mercy is moderate and often intense given the thriller setup. Physical fights, tense restraint scenes, and bloody images appear during key sequences. Most violent moments are stylistic rather than gratuitous, but they can be startling. The confined courtroom/execution setting increases tension and feels claustrophobic.
Language
The film contains intermittent strong language during heated exchanges. Occasional profanity and aggressive speech appear when stakes rise. Racial slurs or sustained derogatory language are not central to promotional information. The language level fits typical PG-13 intensity.
Mature Themes
Mercy explores guilt, justice, and high-tech punishment under moral pressure. Themes include capital crime, AI decision-making, and family trauma after loss. Drug content and portrayals of teen smoking are present and noted in the rating. Sexual content is minimal or absent in available information.
Is Mercy Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: No. Younger viewers will likely be disturbed by the blood and the tense execution premise. The film’s moral complexity and visuals are suited to older audiences.
Ages 13–15: With guidance. Some teens in this group may handle the film if a parent watches first. Expect tense scenes, bloody images, and mature themes that require context.
Ages 16–17: Yes, with discussion. Older teens can follow the thriller and ethical questions. Parents should be ready to discuss violence, drugs, and the idea of automated justice.
Final recommendation: Mercy is best for viewers aged 15+, and parents should consider previewing the film before younger teens watch.
What Parents Can Do
- Watch first and decide: preview Mercy to judge intensity and suitability for your teen.
- Prepare a short talk: explain the film’s key themes, like AI, justice, and consequences.
- Use it as a discussion starter: ask how automated systems should handle life-or-death choices.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is Mercy’s official age rating?
A: Mercy is rated MPAA PG-13 for violence, bloody images, some strong language, drug content and teen smoking.
Q: Is Mercy appropriate for kids and teens?
A: Not for young children. Older teens may watch with guidance and parental discussion.
Q: Does Mercy have violent or scary scenes?
A: Yes. The film includes tense, bloody images and claustrophobic peril.
Q: Is there strong language or slurs in the film?
A: There is some strong language. Repeated slurs are not highlighted in available ratings.
Q: Are there sexual scenes or nudity?
A: Promotional details do not emphasize sexual content. The rating notes focus on violence, drugs, and smoking.
Q: Where will Mercy be released and when?
A: Mercy is scheduled for wide theatrical release worldwide on January 23, 2026, via Amazon MGM Studios.