Las Vegas Film Project Features AI-Rendered Performance of Val Kilmer

The producers of “Deep as a Grave” have introduced a remarkable use of artificial intelligence to recreate late actor Val Kilmer’s performances. The first glimpse was shown on Wednesday at the Las Vegas CinemaCon.

In the trailer, Kilmer portrays Father Fintan, a Catholic priest and Native American spiritualist. He delivers a poignant line: “Don’t be afraid of the dead, and don’t be afraid of me.”

Kilmer, who passed away last year at 65 from pneumonia, is at the center of this historical drama focusing on archaeologists Anne and Earl Morris. The filmmakers made waves when they revealed last month that they would use generative AI to bring Kilmer back on screen, showcasing his character at multiple ages.

During a panel discussion, writer and director Corte Voorhees, along with his brother John, addressed the ethics behind this choice. They emphasized their collaboration with Kilmer’s children and actors’ unions to ensure ethical standards were met. However, Corte Voorhees refrained from labeling this a “Val Kilmer performance.”

“Val Kilmer inspired this performance,” he stated.

Producer John Voorhees highlighted the challenges of depicting real individuals through AI. Despite the risks, they adhered to Screen Actors Guild and American Federation of Television and Radio Artists guidelines, which emphasize consent and cooperation. Kilmer’s estate, which includes his daughter Mercedes, has approved and been compensated for this digital representation, contributing archival footage to support the project.

They also likened Kilmer’s AI-rendered performance to that of an actor portraying a historical figure on film, such as Kilmer himself did as Jim Morrison in “The Doors.” It’s worth noting that Kilmer was no stranger to AI. After losing his natural speaking voice because of throat cancer and subsequent surgeries, he utilized AI technology to recreate his voice, also enhancing his final role in “Top Gun: Maverick.”

Kilmer was originally involved with “As Deep as the Grave” years ago, and his character formed the backbone of the film. When health complications forced him to depart the project abruptly, the production team contemplated proceeding without his character before deciding that Father Fintan was essential. They collaborated with Kilmer’s children, Mercedes and Jack, who responded positively to the idea.

“I was thrilled to see their excitement and willingness to work together,” Corte Voorhees shared. “We wanted to ensure everyone was on board for this to work well.”

Kilmer’s presence in the film amounts to one hour and 17 minutes, although the overall runtime remains unspecified. The filmmakers aim to release the movie later this year.