Two filmmakers have come forward to justify the incorporation of an AI-generated version of the late Val Kilmer in their forthcoming film.
The family of Kilmer has approved the use of AI technology to represent him in the production, although the release of the film’s trailer has sparked some criticism.
As Deep as the Grave, in which Kilmer has a significant role, is set to premiere this year.
The creators of this independent film assert that their methodology is ethical and sets a precedent for the application of artificial intelligence in the film industry.
The film features an AI-enhanced depiction of Val Kilmer, and a trailer was showcased during CinemaCon held in Las Vegas this week.
Filmmaker siblings Coerte and John Voorhees have stated that they obtained consent from Kilmer’s children to utilize AI for his character in the movie.
As Deep as the Grave is a historical drama inspired by the lives of archaeologists Ann and Earl Morris, who investigated the history of the Navajo people in New Mexico.
The announcement of using generative AI to recreate Kilmer’s likeness last month ignited a heated discussion.
According to the filmmakers, they used archival footage, photographs, and voice recordings to shape Kilmer’s performance.
Coerte Voorhees expressed confidence in an interview that audiences would not discern the difference between a human and AI performance. “We are completely assured that this is the right decision for this specific film, and we eagerly anticipate viewers’ reactions,” he remarked at the CinemaCon event.
John Voorhees added that the family was involved creatively “in every possible manner,” and that Kilmer’s estate granted permission for his digital replication. The estate received compensation and contributed archival materials to facilitate the project.
“We believe we are proceeding in an ethical manner,” John Voorhees stated.
Kilmer had agreed to star in As Deep as the Grave several years prior but was unable to participate due to declining health. He passed away in 2025 at the age of 65 from pneumonia after a prolonged battle with throat cancer.
After losing his natural voice due to two tracheotomies, Kilmer sought assistance from an AI software company to create a digital version of his voice. This technology was also employed to enhance his final performance in Top Gun: Maverick.
The recently released trailer for As Deep as the Grave features Kilmer portraying Father Fintan, a Catholic priest and Native American spiritualist. In the trailer, he advises, “Don’t fear the dead. And don’t fear me,” showcasing his likeness at various ages.
However, some viewers have described the trailer as “terrifying” and “disgusting” on social media. One user remarked, “It’s called REST IN PEACE for a reason.”
The filmmakers expressed hope that their project would demonstrate a positive application of technology in Hollywood, asserting that they adhered to all AI usage guidelines outlined by the actors’ union, SAG-AFTRA. “There is significant change occurring, which understandably causes fear and uncertainty,” John Voorhees noted.
The use of AI was a major concern when actors joined writers on strike, highlighting the need for immediate action on the issue.
In addition, the emergence of the world’s first “AI actor,” Tilly Norwood, has also generated considerable controversy.
The filmmakers revealed that Kilmer had initially agreed to participate in As Deep as the Grave, and much of the narrative was crafted around his character. When he had to withdraw at the last moment due to health complications, the team chose to continue filming without the character, only to later recognize that the story required Father Fintan.
They subsequently discussed the concept with Kilmer’s children, Mercedes and Jack. “We were thrilled that they were enthusiastic and supportive of the idea,” Coerte Voorhees shared. “We were determined to proceed only if everyone felt this was a viable approach.”
The film is scheduled to be released later this year.
