Val Kilmer to appear posthumously through AI in film

Actor Val Kilmer is set to make a posthumous appearance in what a production company claims to be the first-ever performance facilitated by generative artificial intelligence in an upcoming film.

Known for his iconic roles in Top Gun, The Doors, and Batman Forever, Kilmer was initially cast as Father Fintan, a Catholic priest and Native American spiritualist, in the movie As Deep as the Grave. 

Unfortunately, he was unable to participate in filming due to complications from throat cancer, and he passed away at 65 in April last year.

Collaborating closely with Kilmer’s estate and his daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, the filmmakers decided to utilize AI technology, aiming to honor Kilmer’s profound personal connection to the character.

“When he was cast, Kilmer shared that the role of Fintan resonated with him both culturally and spiritually,” First Line Films stated in a press release, highlighting his Native American roots and his affection for the American Southwest.

Written and directed by Coerte Voorhees, As Deep as the Grave follows southwestern archaeologists Ann Morris, portrayed by Tin Star actress Abigail Lawrie, and Earl Morris, played by Harry Potter actor Tom Felton.

The story revolves around their archaeological work in Canyon de Chelly, Arizona, while delving into the history and experiences of the Navajo people.

First Line Films, based in New Mexico, announced it would use advanced generative AI technology to recreate Kilmer’s performance, allowing him to portray what the company describes as a “historically significant” character.

Born in California and trained at Juilliard, Kilmer was known for his intense performances and a reputation as a Hollywood bad boy.

His body of work includes Tombstone, where he delivered a memorable performance as Doc Holliday, alongside blockbuster and biographical roles that solidified his status as one of the most distinctive actors of his era.