AI Resurrects Val Kilmer in New Film

A deceased Hollywood icon’s likeness will feature in an upcoming indie film. An AI replica of actor Val Kilmer will star in the film “As Deep as the Grave.” Kilmer, who passed away from pneumonia in 2025, was originally cast as a Catholic priest and Native American spiritualist in the film, which faced delays due to the pandemic. He couldn’t film any scenes due to his declining health from throat cancer. Filmmakers Coerte and John Voorhees created a photorealistic digital model of Kilmer using previously recorded material, relying on generative AI to incorporate his likeness into the film. Kilmer’s estate and daughter support this decision, honoring his interest in technology and storytelling. The production complied with Screen Actors Guild guidelines, compensating the estate for Kilmer’s appearance. Kilmer had worked with a software company to create a synthetic voice based on his recorded audio after losing his voice due to cancer treatment. His synthetic voice was used for his dialogue in “Top Gun: Maverick.”