A storm of controversy has erupted following the release of a trailer for the upcoming film,As Deep As the Grave. The film features the late Val Kilmer, but not as audiences traditionally understand a performance.
Kilmer, who tragically lost his battle with throat cancer in April 2025, was originally cast as Father Fintan, a complex character blending Catholic and Native American spirituality. However, his declining health prevented him from filming any scenes. The filmmakers, with the support of Kilmer’s daughter, Mercedes, made the unprecedented decision to recreate his entire performance using artificial intelligence.
The trailer offers glimpses of Kilmer as a young man, in his prime, and as an older, weathered figure – all digitally constructed. The chilling climax features an AI-generated likeness of Kilmer uttering the haunting words: “Don’t fear the dead, and don’t fear me.”
The response has been overwhelmingly negative, igniting a fierce debate about the ethics of using AI to resurrect deceased actors. Actor Jackson Rathbone publicly questioned the actors’ union, SAG-AFTRA, demanding an explanation for what he deemed unacceptable.
Rathbone’s criticism didn’t stop there. He directly addressed Kilmer’s daughter, questioning whether the decision was motivated by grief or financial gain, calling the trailer “the MOST disgusting thing I’ve ever seen.” Other viewers echoed his sentiment, expressing outrage and disbelief.
Many questioned the very definition of “starring” when the actor’s presence is entirely synthetic. Calls for clear labeling – “AI Val Kilmer” – were widespread, alongside demands that theaters refuse to screen the film.
The ethical concerns run deep, with some commentators describing the practice as “immoral and obscene,” even with the family’s consent. One Redditor bluntly asked if anyone involved considered the implications of what amounted to “NECROMANCY.”
Kilmer’s final on-screen appearance was a poignant return to his iconic role as Iceman in 2022’sTop Gun: Maverick, a performance delivered with genuine emotion and vulnerability. This new digital resurrection feels drastically different.
Director Coerte Voorhees explained that Kilmer was immediately drawn to the role of Father Fintan and the story of Ann Morris, a pioneering female archaeologist. He acknowledged the unfortunate timing of Kilmer’s illness and framed the AI recreation as a way to honor the actor’s vision.
Mercedes Kilmer emphasized her father’s optimistic view of technology and his belief in its potential to expand storytelling. She stated that the film is intended to be a tribute to his spirit and his integral role in the project.
Despite these intentions, the controversy continues to escalate, raising profound questions about the future of performance and the boundaries of digital recreation in the entertainment industry.
