Val Kilmer to Appear in New Movie via AI

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Val Kilmer has been resurrected for a film via AI a year after his death.

In the upcoming independent film, As Deep As the Grave, a digital recreation of the actor—who passed away from pneumonia at age 65 on April 1, 2025—will portray Father Fintan, a unique character combining the roles of a Catholic priest and a Native American spiritual leader.

The actor was perfect for the role – we’d actually built the character around him, specifically incorporating his Native American background and connection to the Southwest. We were all set to start filming, with his name already on the shooting schedule, but he was facing serious health issues and unfortunately couldn’t take part, according to Vorhees in an interview with Variety.

Because of health issues, Val Kilmer couldn’t participate in filming. However, the director, Vorhees, received permission from Kilmer’s estate to digitally recreate the actor using artificial intelligence.

According to Vorhees, Val’s family repeatedly emphasized the film’s significance and how much Val desired to participate.

Val Kilmer’s daughter, Mercedes, approved of using AI to recreate his on-screen presence. She shared that her father liked the film’s theme of learning and growth.

Even though there’s debate about using AI in art and entertainment – particularly when it involves recreating the images of people who have passed away – Vorhees believes this is what Kilmer would have approved of.

The director explained that the reporter was eager to have his name associated with what he believed was a significant story. That support was key to moving forward. Even though the story might be seen as controversial, it was what the subject, Val, desired, the director added.

According to Variety, a digitally created version of Val Kilmer – built using old photos, clips from his movies, and recordings of his voice – will play a major role in the upcoming film.

The film As Deep As the Grave, inspired by real events, features Abigail Lawrie, Tom Felton, Wes Studi, and Abigail Breslin in its cast.

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2026-03-18 20:57