The movie As Deep as the Grave will use generative artificial intelligence to include the late Val Kilmer in its cast. Director Coerte Voorhees designed the role of Father Fintan, a character with Native American heritage, with Kilmer in mind. With the actor's family's approval, AI will be used to recreate his image and voice, a decision they recognize as potentially controversial but based on Kilmer's personal interest in technology.
A technical solution for a tight budget 🤖
The process continues the work started in Top Gun: Maverick to recover Kilmer's voice, affected by his throat cancer. On this occasion, AI will also generate his visual appearance to portray a character who, in parallel, suffers from tuberculosis. For an independent production with limited resources, this technology presents itself not only as a tribute, but as a practical tool that allows tackling a casting that would otherwise be impossible.
The actor who doesn't need a trailer (or air) 👻
Kilmer is consolidating as a post-mortem pioneer in digital Hollywood. His commitment to a project is now absolute: no scheduling conflicts, no script demands, and, most notably, no need to breathe to portray a tubercular character. AI ensures that his cough is perfectly synchronized, a method actor detail that few flesh-and-blood actors would be willing to rehearse so many times. An example of dedication to the craft, even if through algorithms.