A year after the actor’s death, a generative AI version of Val Kilmer will co-star in an independent film.
will co-star in an independent film, in one of the boldest uses yet of artificial intelligence in moviemaking. First Line Films announced Wednesday that Kilmer has posthumously joined the cast of a film titled “As Deep as the Grave.
” The producers said that, before his death, Kilmer had signed on to perform in the movie but was unable to because of his health.Kilmer's estate gave permission for his digital replication, and is being compensated for it. Mercedes Kilmer, the actor's daughter, said the role resonated with her father. “He always looked at emerging technologies with optimism as a tool to expand the possibilities of storytelling,” she said in a statement. “This spirit is something that we are all honoring within this specific film, of which he was an integral part.”at the age of 65 from pneumonia. In 2014, Kilmer was diagnosed with throat cancer and required two tracheotomies. After losing his natural speaking voice, Kilmer turned to an AI software company to digital recreate his voice. In his final screen performance, 2022's “Top Gun: Maverick,” Kilmer's voice was digitally altered. The use of artificial intelligence in filmmaking has been one of the most contentious topics in Hollywood in recent years. Lately, some have attempted to make greater inroads for AI-generated performance. The company Xicoia last year launched theSAG-AFTRA, the actors union, has condemned Xicoia's “AI actor,” but it has regulations around other uses of the technology. Its rules stipulate that consent from performers must be given for the use of digital replicas. “Consent not obtained before death must be obtained from an authorized representative or the union,” reads its guidance.In an email, writer-director Coerte Voorhees and producer John Voorhees said SAG guidelines were followed. “We believe we are serving as a demonstrator for how to do it ethically and correctly, especially in the case of working with a deceased actor’s estate and family,” they said. “As Deep as the Grave,” formerly titled “Canyon of the Dead,” was shot several years ago but has been stuck in postproduction. It's based on a true story about the archaeologists Ann and Earl Morris, whose Arizona excavations uncovered Native American history. The AI version of Kilmer plays Father Fintan, a Catholic priest and Native American spiritualist. The cast includes Abigail Lawrie, Tom Felton, Wes Studi and Abigail Breslin. Coerte Voorhees said Kilmer, who identified as part Native American, was drawn to the project five years ago. Producers are seeking distribution with the hope of releasing the film this year. “It was very unfortunate that his health at the time prevented him from playing this role which spoke to him spiritually and culturally,” Voorhees said. “We are honored to collaborate with his daughter Mercedes, who brings her own filmmaking experience, to bring this character to life in the way that we had all originally imagined it.” Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.Officials are responding to a train derailment in RosenbergUnlock featured deals at local favorites with Houston Life Deals!5 vehicles are currently involved in a major crash on Tomball ParkwayBreaking news: A man was beaten during an attempted robberyJudge extends Texas school voucher application deadlineHouston ISD's plan to improve school safetyHouston Texans add Wyatt TellerFreeze warning issued for areas north of HoustonThe Coogs are back in the Big Dance! Houston enters March Madness as a No. 2 seedTuesday's temperatures will be last real taste of winter in HoustonDeadline to apply for Texas school vouchers is TuesdayWhy is Houston so windy today?Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo releases statement after fights cause early carnival closureTracking Thunderstorms and Strong Winds!A sunny day for RodeoHouston!Happy Saturday!! 💛 The rodeo fun continues this weekend!▶TX Sen. Paul Bettencourt calls for Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo to resign after rodeo meltdownSave money on tickets to the Alley Theatre in downtown Houston this month!2:13Meet the popular hatmaker with a one year wait listWatch for a broken line of storms in Houston this week!Houston buckle up! Temperatures will take a dramatic drop Sunday night
Technology Val Kilmer Abigail Lawrie Mercedes Kilmer Tom Felton Earl Morris Wes Studi Abigail Breslin
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