The film centers on archaeologists Ann and Earl Morris, with Val Kilmer’s likeness and performance, including multiple ages and a priestly figure, recreated via generative AI with the consent of Kilmer’s family.

Kilmer died in 2024 at 65 after a battle with throat cancer; the project frames his AI-recreated appearance within an ethical and consent-driven industry framework.

Industry dialogue on AI in acting is foregrounded, with producer John Voorhees stressing adherence to union guidelines to ensure consent, compensation, and collaboration.

Social media reactions to the trailer include strong backlash from some users who found certain scenes, like a corpse being dug up, to be disgusting.

The film is written and directed by Coerte Voorhees, with no announced release date yet.

Release plans call for festival premieres followed by a limited theatrical run within the year.

Jackson Rathbone publicly criticized the decision on social media and urged SAG-AFTRA to explain the strike stance on AI recreations.

Production began in New Mexico during the COVID-19 era, and the project aims for a 2026 theatrical release.

Warner Bros. hints at a larger Dune universe future with a grimmer, conflict-driven narrative, though this point is not central to the Kilmer project.

The piece notes a painstaking process behind the AI recreation and production choices.

The Mary Sue notes the project is not part of a multi-part series and views reviving a deceased actor for a standalone tale as controversial nostalgia.

Controversy centers on ethical concerns and potential industry precedents, with critics labeling the approach disrespectful despite comparisons to earlier CGI revivals.