AI recreates Val Kilmer’s likeness for posthumous role in historical drama As Deep as the Grave

A new trailer for the upcoming historical film As Deep as the Grave features an AI-generated performance by the late actor Val Kilmer. The Top Gun and Batman Forever star died in 2025 at the age of 65 from pneumonia, following a long battle with throat cancer first diagnosed in 2014. Although Kilmer was originally cast in the role of Father Fintan, a Catholic priest and Native American spiritualist, his illness prevented him from filming any scenes. With the approval of his estate and family, including his daughter Mercedes, the filmmakers employed advanced generative AI technology to create his likeness and voice for the character. The role was specifically written for Kilmer, drawing on his own Native American heritage and connection to the American Southwest. In the trailer, the AI version of Kilmer delivers the line, “Don’t fear the dead, and don’t fear me.” The film is directed by Coerte Voorhees and also stars actors such as Abigail Lawrie and Tom Felton. This project represents one of the most notable uses of AI to complete an actor’s performance posthumously, raising ongoing discussions in the film industry about the ethical implications, potential impact on living performers, and the future of digital resurrection in cinema. The production team has emphasised that the technology was used respectfully and with full family consent to honour Kilmer’s intended contribution to the story. The trailer has generated significant interest, highlighting both the capabilities of modern AI in filmmaking and the emotional resonance of seeing beloved actors return to the screen after their passing.