The use of generative AI in Hollywood has already sparked discussions about creativity and legacy. Well, an indie film, As deep as the graveis drawing attention by bringing Val Kilmer back to the big screen using artificial intelligence.
Years before his death in 2025, Kilmer was cast by writer-director Coerte Voorhees, who crafted the role specifically for him. As Voorhees explained to Variety, “He was the actor I wanted to play in this role. It was entirely geared towards him. It drew on his Native American heritage and his connection to the Southwest and his love of the Southwest.”
Why the film turned to the AI of the generation instead of recasting it
Kilmer’s battle with throat cancer meant he was never able to film his scenes. Still, Voorhees decided not to abandon the character. He turned to generative AI and worked closely with Kilmer’s family to carefully fulfill the role.
This support played a key role in the decision. “His family always said how important they thought the film was and that Val really wanted to be a part of it.” says Coerte Voorhees.
“He really thought it was an important story that he wanted his name in. It was that support that gave me the confidence to say, OK, let’s do this. Even though some people might call it controversial, it’s what Val wanted.”
Val Kilmer’s role in the film As deep as the grave
the film, As deep as the gravetells the true story of archaeologists Ann and Earl Morris in Canyon de Chelly, Arizona, as they research Navajo history. The main roles are played by Abigail Lawrie and Tom Felton, with Wes Studi and Abigail Breslin in the supporting roles.
Val Kilmer’s character, Father Fintan, appears as a spiritual presence in this world. His performance is based on archive material, family material and recordings from later years of his life.
His voice was also recreated using AI, similar to the technology used after his tracheostomy, including when he portrayed Tom “Iceman” Kazansky in Top Gun: Maverick.
The production itself took six years and suffered delays due to Covid-19 and budget issues. At one point, Kilmer’s scenes were completely removed before the team realized that the film felt incomplete without him. That led them back to generative AI as a solution.
The decision comes amid a growing debate about AI in filmmaking, as more filmmakers openly discuss the use of the technology while actors raise concerns about consent and control.
