In the United States, First Line Films announced that Val Kilmer will posthumously star in an independent film titled As Deep as the Grave, utilizing generative AI technology to create a digital version of the late actor. This decision follows Kilmer's death from pneumonia in April 2022, at age 65, and is backed by permission from his estate. Prior to his passing, Kilmer was on board to participate in the film but was unable to due to health issues stemming from his battle with throat cancer. His daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, expressed that her father had a deep spiritual connection with the character he was meant to portray, reinforcing the significance of the role to him. The project, which has been stalled in post-production for several years, is notable for its innovative use of AI in recreating Kilmer's performance. Coerte Voorhees, the film's writer and director, explained that the film aligns with Kilmer's openness to emerging technologies that expand storytelling. The AI-generated character, Father Fintan, is a Catholic priest and a Native American spiritualist, a role that resonated with Kilmer’s own identity. The film includes a cast of notable actors such as Abigail Lawrie and Tom Felton. Kilmer initially explored AI technologies in 2021 after losing his natural speaking voice due to his illness. He utilized an AI software called Sonantic to recreate his voice, which was later featured in Top Gun: Maverick. Voorhees intends to use this AI-generated voice for Kilmer’s character in As Deep as the Grave, ensuring that it mirrors the character’s condition and adds authenticity to the performance. While some actors raise concerns about the implications of AI-generated performances, Kilmer’s estate supports this approach, highlighting a blend of honoring the actor's legacy and advancing cinematic possibilities. The film, originally titled Canyon of the Dead, is expected to finally be released in 2026. As the industry grapples with the integration of AI into filmmaking, it sparks discussions about the future of digital likenesses and the rights of performers. California has begun shaping regulations around this issue, with legislation protecting digital representations as part of the performers' posthumous rights. The approach taken with Kilmer's legacy illustrates a balance between innovation and ethical considerations, as filmmakers seek to navigate this evolving landscape with respect for the individual behind the on-screen persona.