Val Kilmer to appear through AI in 'As Deep as the Grave', first look shared

'As Deep as the Grave' features Val Kilmer AI performance with first look unveiled

A new film featuring a digital recreation of Val Kilmer has been confirmed, with the late actor appearing through generative AI in As Deep as the Grave. 

Kilmer had originally been cast as Father Fintan, a Catholic priest and Native American spiritualist, several years before he died in 2025.

However, due to complications from throat cancer, he was unable to film his scenes. Director Coerte Voorhees said the role had been specifically written for Kilmer.

“He was the actor I wanted to play this role,” Voorhees said. “It was very much designed around him.”

The production has now incorporated Kilmer into the film using AI technology, with approval from his estate and family. His daughter Mercedes Kilmer confirmed her support, stating that her father valued storytelling and emerging technologies.

“His family kept saying how important they thought the movie was and that Val really wanted to be a part of this,” Voorhees said. “Despite the fact that some people might call it controversial, this is what Val wanted.”

The film tells the story of archaeologists exploring the history of the Navajo people in Arizona’s Canyon de Chelly. The AI-generated performance uses archival images and voice material from different stages of Kilmer’s life.

According to producer John Voorhees, the character’s illness also reflects Kilmer’s own health struggles, creating what he described as “a kind of bridge.”

The use of AI in the project comes amid wider debate within the film industry about ethics, consent and employment. The filmmakers stated they followed union guidelines and ensured compensation for Kilmer’s estate.

During his lifetime, Kilmer had already explored AI-assisted voice technology, including for his role in Top Gun: Maverick, where he reprised his character despite vocal limitations caused by illness.