AI is bringing Val Kilmer back to life in the new film “As Deep as the Grave.”
The film has unveiled its first look at Val Kilmer's character, Father Fintan.
Hollywood's use of generative AI has already sparked discussions about creativity and legacy. Now, an independent film, As Deep as the Grave, is gaining attention for reviving Val Kilmer on screen through artificial intelligence.
Prior to his death in 2025, Kilmer was cast by writer-director Coerte Voorhees, who crafted the role specifically for him. Voorhees shared with Variety, "He was the actor I envisioned for this role. It was specifically designed around him, incorporating his Native American heritage and his affection for the Southwest."
The film opted for generative AI instead of recasting the role.
Val Kilmer in Blood Out (2011) IMDB
Due to Kilmer's struggle with throat cancer, he was unable to film his scenes. Nevertheless, Voorhees refused to abandon the character. He collaborated with generative AI and worked closely with Kilmer's family to carefully fulfill the role.
Their support played a crucial part in the decision. "His family emphasized how much they believed in the film and that Val genuinely wanted to be involved," Voorhees stated.
"He felt it was an important story he wanted his name attached to. That encouragement gave me the confidence to proceed. Despite the possibility of controversy, this is what Val wanted."
Val Kilmer's role in the film As Deep as the Grave
As Deep as the Grave recounts the true story of archaeologists Ann and Earl Morris as they delve into Navajo history in Canyon de Chelly, Arizona. It features Abigail Lawrie and Tom Felton, with Wes Studi and Abigail Breslin in supporting roles.
An AI-generated version of Val Kilmer appears in the upcoming film "As Deep as the Grave." Variety
Kilmer's character, Father Fintan, serves as a spiritual presence within the film. His portrayal is constructed from archival footage, family resources, and recordings from later in his life.
His voice has also been recreated through AI, similar to the technology used following his tracheal operation, including his reprise of Tom "Iceman" Kazansky in Top Gun: Maverick.
The production spanned six years, experiencing delays due to COVID and budgetary constraints. At one point, Kilmer's scenes were completely cut, but the team later recognized that the film felt incomplete without him, leading them back to generative AI as a solution.
This decision comes amid a growing conversation about AI in filmmaking, as more creators discuss the use of technology while actors voice concerns regarding consent and control.
Manisha enjoys covering technology that impacts daily life, from smartphones and apps to gaming and streaming.
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AI is bringing Val Kilmer back to life in the new film “As Deep as the Grave.”
As Deep as the Grave employs AI to bring Val Kilmer back into a role that was originally created for him, with his family's support for the choice, even amidst ongoing discussions about technology in the film industry.