In a recent revelation, Chris Pratt shared insights into the casting process for his upcoming sci-fi thriller, “Mercy.” Initially, he proposed the unconventional idea of using an AI actor for the role of Judge Maddox but was relieved when this concept was promptly dismissed. The idea seemed novel but did not evolve into serious consideration throughout the production stages.
Ultimately, the character of Judge Maddox was convincingly portrayed by Rebecca Ferguson, with other notable candidates, including Oprah Winfrey, also being considered early in the discussions. Pratt recounts these moments humorously, noting that while the notion of an AI judge seemed intriguing, the outcome was for the best. He emphasized the collaborative nature of casting decisions and expressed gratitude for the casting of Ferguson, who brought a unique depth to the role.
Set in a not-so-distant future, “Mercy” depicts Pratt as a homicide detective accused of murdering his wife. His character finds himself in a harrowing situation where he must prove his innocence to an AI judge within a restrictive timeframe, facing the dire consequence of execution if he fails. Ferguson’s portrayal of Judge Maddox initially presents a cold, robotic demeanor, but as the narrative unfolds, she begins to exhibit signs of empathy, adding complexity to her character.
Pratt and Ferguson engaged in extensive discussions to create Judge Maddox’s character arc, balancing the portrayal of her as an AI with an emerging sense of humanity. Their collaborative rehearsals not only helped define the character but also streamlined the editing process, ensuring a clear vision for the film before shooting commenced.
The film promises to explore themes of humanity, technology, and moral dilemmas, intriguing viewers with its innovative plot and character development. “Mercy” is set to hit theaters this weekend, and fans can anticipate an engaging cinematic experience that combines thrilling storytelling with thought-provoking concepts.