2026 CinemaCon - AI Val Kilmer

People watch a trailer for the upcoming film “As Deep as the Grave” featuring a character played by a generative AI version of Val Kilmer at CinemaCon on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.

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AI-rendered Val Kilmer debuts in 'As Deep as the Grave' trailer

AI-rendered Val Kilmer debuts in 'As Deep as the Grave' trailer

The filmmakers behind “As Deep as the Grave” have used AI to recreate Val Kilmer in a prominent role. They debuted a first look at the AI-rendered Kilmer Wednesday at CinemaCon in Las Vegas. Kilmer, who died last year, appears as Father Fintan, a Catholic priest and Native American spiritualist. The use of AI for this historical drama has sparked debate. Writer-director Coerte Voorhees explained that Kilmer’s estate, including his daughter Mercedes, gave permission and provided archival footage. Kilmer had originally signed on for the film but withdrew due to health issues.