NEW YORK (AP) - A year after the death of actor Val Kilmer, a generative AI version of him is set to co-star in an independent film titled As Deep as the Grave, marking a significant advancement in the use of artificial intelligence within the film industry. First Line Films announced this development on Wednesday, revealing that Kilmer had previously signed on for the role before he passed away but was unable to participate due to health issues.
Kilmer's estate has granted permission for his digital likeness to be utilized in the film, and the estate will receive financial compensation for this use. His daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, expressed that the role deeply resonated with her father, stating, "He always looked at emerging technologies with optimism as a tool to expand the possibilities of storytelling." She highlighted that this spirit is being honored in the film, where her father had a significant involvement before his death.
Val Kilmer died in April 2022 at the age of 65 due to pneumonia, having struggled with throat cancer since 2014, which led to two tracheotomies. Following the loss of his natural speaking voice, Kilmer collaborated with an AI software company to digitally recreate his voice. In his final performance in the 2022 film Top Gun: Maverick, his voice was altered using AI technology.
The intersection of artificial intelligence and filmmaking has become a contentious topic in Hollywood, sparking various debates about ethical use. Recently, the company Xicoia debuted an AI-generated persona named Tilly Norwood, prompting criticism from SAG-AFTRA, the actors' union, which has condemned the notion of an "AI actor." However, SAG-AFTRA's guidelines permit the use of digital replicas provided that consent is acquired from performers. Notably, if consent was not obtained before an actor's death, it must be secured from an authorized representative or the union.
Representatives from SAG-AFTRA did not respond to inquiries regarding this particular project. Nevertheless, writer-director Coerte Voorhees and producer John Voorhees affirmed that they adhered to SAG guidelines throughout production. They stated, "We believe we are serving as a demonstrator for how to do it ethically and correctly, especially in the case of working with a deceased actor's estate and family."
As Deep as the Grave, which was previously titled Canyon of the Dead, was filmed several years ago but has remained in postproduction. The movie is based on the true story of archaeologists Ann and Earl Morris and their efforts to unearth Native American history in Arizona. The generative AI version of Kilmer will portray Father Fintan, a Catholic priest and Native American spiritualist, while the cast also includes Abigail Lawrie, Tom Felton, Wes Studi, and Abigail Breslin. Voorhees noted that Kilmer, who identified as part Native American, was drawn to the project five years ago.
The producers are currently seeking distribution for the film and hope to release it later this year. Voorhees remarked, "It was very unfortunate that his health at the time prevented him from playing this role which spoke to him spiritually and culturally." He expressed gratitude for working with Mercedes Kilmer, who is also contributing her experience to the project, ensuring that her father's character is brought to life as originally envisioned.
