Val Kilmer is “resurrected” by generative artificial intelligence for 'As Deep as the Grave'

Through official press release, First Line Films announced this week that his next film project, the historical drama As Deep as the Grave –formerly known as Canyon of the Dead– will have posthumous participation of the actor Val Kilmerin which you will mark a unprecedented appearance.

Why do we say the above? Because unlike other projects, whose production was underway when its protagonist died, and filming had to be completed with the help of a substitute – such as the case of Brandon Lee or Paul Walker – the Kilmer's participation was done entirely using generative artificial intelligence. You can find the first look below.

Kilmer reportedly wanted to star in As Deep as the Gravebut his delicate state of health did not allow it. The actor died on April 1, 2025, at the age of 65, due to complications resulting from pneumonia. Kilmer suffered from chronic health problems after being diagnosed with throat cancer in 2014, which caused him significant breathing difficulties and required several tracheostomies.

The release also indicates that Kilmer was originally cast in the role of Father Fintan, a Native American Catholic priest and spiritualist and historical figure at the San Juan Mission in Farmington, New Mexico, although he was unable to film due to his declining health.

That didn't stop the film from being made. And this is where artificial intelligence comes in.

VAL KILMER'S DAUGHTER APPROVED THE USE OF GENERATIVE AI TO RECREATE HER FATHER

The press release reveals that, Mercedes Kilmerdaughter of Val Kilmer, approved the use of generative AI for the creation of his father in the filmcollaborating closely with production:

“Cutting-edge generative AI technology has allowed the filmmakers to fulfill Kilmer’s wish to play this historical figure, in collaboration with his heirs and daughter Mercedes.”

Mercedes Kilmer gave her own statement:

“My father was a deeply spiritual man, and this story of discovery and enlightenment in the American Southwest, as well as his unique role in it, was very meaningful to him. He always viewed new technologies with optimism, as a tool to expand narrative possibilities. This spirit is something we all honor in this film, of which he was a fundamental part.”

As Deep as the Grave is billed as “a true action-adventure portrait of southwestern archaeologists Ann and Earl Morris. The film tells the story of their excavations in Canyon de Chelly, Arizona, and the history of the Navajo people.”

Coerte Voorhees He is the director, screenwriter and producer.

Voorhees stated:

“It was a real shame that his health at the time prevented him from playing this role, which had spiritual and cultural significance for him. We were honored to collaborate with his daughter Mercedes, who brings her own film experience, to bring this character to life as we had all originally imagined him.”

The main cast includes Abigail Lawrie (Cold Water), Tom Felton (Harry Potter), y Abigail Breslin (Little Miss Sunshine), con Hanako Footman, Ewen Bremner, Tatanka Means, Find Jonesy Jacob Fortune-Lloyd.

The Navajo Nation and the National Park Service facilitated filming at the actual archaeological sites in Canyon de Chelly and throughout the Four Corners region.

The film has been in post-production for three years, and is seeking distribution.

First look at Kilmer created by generative AI: