The creators of the independent film “As Deep as the Grave” showcased a preview of the digitally resurrected Val Kilmer, created using artificial intelligence technology, during CinemaCon in Las Vegas. In the trailer, Kilmer’s character, Father Fintan, delivers a line asserting his presence despite being deceased.
Following Kilmer’s passing at 65 due to pneumonia, the decision to utilize generative AI to bring him back for this historical drama sparked controversy upon its recent announcement. The trailer exhibits Kilmer’s character depicted at different stages of life.
Writer-director Coerte Voorhees, joined by his brother John, addressed the audience at a panel discussion, justifying their ethical approach in collaborating with Kilmer’s family and the actors’ union to navigate the delicate matter of posthumous performances. Despite attributing influence to Val Kilmer, Coerte Voorhees refrained from categorizing the portrayal as a genuine performance by the late actor.
Producer John Voorhees acknowledged the risks associated with employing AI-generated actors based on real individuals but stressed adherence to guidelines established by the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), which center around consent, compensation, and collaboration.
The debate around synthetic performers, particularly exemplified by the AI creation Tilly Norwood by Particle6, has raised concerns about the potential diminishment of human actors’ role in the industry. Filmmakers like Timur Bekmambetov aim to proliferate the adoption of AI tools across Hollywood. Conversely, some industry figures, including director Rian Johnson, have criticized the encroachment of AI in filmmaking.
Apart from fully artificial performers, other categories encompass the recreation of real individuals, such as employment-based digital replicas and digital alteration, which may involve modifying an actor’s appearance or accent with appropriate consent.
The utilization of computer technology to enhance or alter actors’ performances predates the current AI advancements, with past instances including digital de-aging techniques in films like “Gemini Man” and “The Irishman.” The integration of AI assistance in performances, exemplified by Adrien Brody’s role in “The Brutalist,” has prompted discussions within the industry, with calls for mandatory disclosure of AI involvement in award considerations.
The concept of independently created digital replicas, exemplified by Val Kilmer’s virtual presence in “As Deep as the Grave,” has garnered attention, echoing past instances like the proposed digital recreation of James Dean. The evolution of AI technology has led to celebrities licensing their likenesses for various applications, such as voice replication for commercial use.
Val Kilmer’s estate authorized the digital replication of the late actor, facilitated by archival footage and compensation. Kilmer’s prior use of AI technology for voice reproduction following health challenges further underscores the evolving landscape of performance enhancement in the industry.
The decision to incorporate Kilmer’s character back into the film after his initial departure was met with support from Kilmer’s family, highlighting ethical considerations in utilizing AI-generated performances. The runtime details of the movie featuring Kilmer’s digital depiction were not fully disclosed but are slated for release later this year.