Val Kilmer will posthumously star in the film As Deep As The Grave, using state-of-the-art generative AI technology. The actor, who died last year at age 65 from pneumonia following a battle with throat cancer, was originally cast in the role of Father Fintan before his death.
Key Takeaways
Val Kilmer will posthumously star in the film As Deep As The Grave using AI technology. The actor's estate and family support the project, which is based on true events involving archaeologists and Navajo people.
- Val Kilmer to appear via AI in new film 'As Deep As The Grave'
- Project uses state-of-the-art generative AI with the blessing of Kilmer’s estate
- Film follows archaeologists Ann and Earl Morris working with Navajo people
- Kilmer's family supports the project, citing his interest in the story
- Controversy surrounds use of deceased actors' images
The project has been developed with the support and cooperation of Kilmer's estate and family. Director Coerte Voorhees stated that the character of Father Fintan resonated deeply with Kilmer due to its ties to his claimed Cherokee heritage and love for the Southwest, according to Variety. The film is based on the true story of archaeologists Ann and Earl Morris who worked with the Navajo people in Arizona's Canyon de Chelly during the 1920s.
The AI version of Kilmer will appear in a significant portion of the film, utilizing images from throughout his life to recreate him across different decades. The cast includes actors Tom Felton as Earl Morris and Abigail Lawrie as Ann Morris, along with Oscar winner Wes Studi and Jacob Fortune-Lloyd. The film is currently in post-production and is expected to be released later this year.
The use of AI to recreate deceased actors has sparked controversy among fans and industry professionals alike. While some express discomfort with the practice, Kilmer's daughter Mercedes maintains that her father would have been supportive of using emerging technologies for storytelling purposes. Voorhees emphasized adherence to SAG-AFTRA regulations regarding consent from authorized representatives or unions when utilizing AI performances.
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