A year following the passing of the actor, a generative AI rendition of Val Kilmer is set to star in an indie film, marking a bold utilization of artificial intelligence in the film industry. First Line Films revealed that Kilmer has been digitally incorporated into a movie named “As Deep as the Grave.” The filmmakers disclosed that Kilmer had initially committed to the project before his demise, but health issues prevented his participation.
Kilmer’s estate granted approval for his virtual replication and is receiving compensation for it. Mercedes Kilmer, the actor’s daughter, expressed that the role held significance for her father. She emphasized his optimistic view towards emerging technologies, seeing them as tools to enhance storytelling possibilities. Kilmer passed away in April last year at 65 due to pneumonia. In 2014, he was diagnosed with throat cancer, leading to two tracheotomies.
In response to losing his natural voice, Kilmer collaborated with an AI software company to recreate his voice digitally. His final screen appearance in the 2022 film “Top Gun: Maverick” featured digitally modified vocalization. The integration of artificial intelligence into filmmaking has sparked debates in Hollywood, especially regarding AI-generated performances. Xicoia introduced the AI-generated persona “Tilly Norwood,” attracting both curiosity and criticism.
SAG-AFTRA, the actors union, has criticized the concept of AI actors but has established guidelines for the technology’s permissible applications. The union mandates obtaining consent from performers for deploying digital replicas, even posthumously. The film “As Deep as the Grave,” previously known as “Canyon of the Dead,” has been in postproduction for several years. It recounts the true story of archaeologists Ann and Earl Morris, who unearthed Indigenous history in Arizona.
The AI portrayal of Kilmer in the movie depicts the character Father Fintan, a Catholic priest and Indigenous spiritual figure. Notable actors like Abigail Lawrie, Tom Felton, Wes Studi, and Abigail Breslin are part of the cast. Coerte Voorhees, the writer-director, mentioned Kilmer’s attraction to the project years ago, citing his claimed Cherokee heritage. The filmmakers aim to secure distribution for the film and potentially release it this year, paying tribute to Kilmer’s envisioned contribution to the role.