Val Kilmer's AI Comeback in 'As Deep as the Grave'

0:00Here's more Durham news from March 18th. Val Kilmer is making a return to the movies through cutting-edge AI over a year after passing away. The late actor, who died from pneumonia in April 2025 at age 65, was cast six years ago in the indie film as Deep as the Grave. He plays father Fintan, a priest blending Catholic and Native American spiritual traditions. Delays from the COVID pandemic stretched production over six years. Kilmer's ongoing health issues, including throw cancer, kept him from filming his scenes before his death. His family, including daughter Mercedes and son Jack, fully supports the AI approach despite some backlash. They say the story matter deeply to him and matches his vision for the project. The movie recreates Kilmer's likeness using family-provided photos from his younger days, plus later footage to track the characters' changes. His real voice appears, too, capturing the effects of his illness for added depth. Producers turn to AI because tight budgets rule out recasting or reshoots.

1:02They see it as a smart fix that honors Kilmer's personal ties to the role and keeps the indie film moving forward. Appreciation to our sponsor for backing this episode. No need to switch positions. The sound is already where your head is. S-O-L-I, solelypillow.com. Made in AI.