The late actor Peter Cushing is set to return to the screen—albeit digitally—in Sky UK’s new documentary Hammer: Heroes, Legends, and Monsters, which airs in the UK, 9pm, Halloween Night October 31. 

The doco will bring Cushing’s likeness to life via AI to guide viewers through the legacy of Hammer Film Productions, the studio famed for pioneering British horror. Known for roles like Grand Moff Tarkin in Star Wars: A New Hope and iconic characters like Van Helsing and Victor Frankenstein, Cushing’s presence in Hammer Films helped shape the studio’s global impact on the genre.

Narrated by Game of Thrones star Charles Dance, the documentary marks Hammer’s 90th anniversary, with insights from horror luminaries like John Carpenter, Tim Burton, and Joe Dante. Although specific details of Cushing’s digital performance are under wraps, producers at Deep Fusion Films describe it as a “special homage” to the actor, who passed away in 1994. Ben Field, head of Deep Fusion, confirmed that Cushing’s estate had granted full permission, underscoring that Cushing’s inclusion is meant to “honor the spirit and impact he had on the studio and its fans.”

Deep Fusion’s choice to digitally recreate Cushing echoes earlier debates surrounding his likeness, most notably his digital revival as Tarkin in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016). That appearance stirred up ethical debate around posthumous digital portrayals, and since then, the use of AI for recreating deceased actors has been increasingly scrutinized. 

The Cush as Grand Moff Tarkin

Source: 20th Century Fox / Star Wars / Lucas Film

Field, however, assures that the process was handled with “great care” to celebrate Cushing’s legacy without sensationalizing his image. According to Field, the AI recreation is a “necessary” part of telling Hammer’s story authentically, emphasizing that Cushing’s career alongside actors like Christopher Lee is foundational to the studio’s lore.

While Cushing’s posthumous portrayal intends to add reverence to Hammer’s legacy, the use of deepfake technology remains contentious. With recent Hollywood strikes bringing to light the potential impacts of AI on creative industries, many question whether digital recreations can truly replace genuine artistry. As AI developments continue to reshape entertainment, Hammer: Heroes, Legends, and Monsters is likely to spark renewed discussions about the boundaries of digital homage in the arts.

Source:  Deep Fusion Films

Produced by Deep Fusion Films in collaboration with Hammer Films and narrated by Charles Dance OBE, Hammer: Heroes, Legends, and Monsters delves into the minds behind Hammer’s iconic horror legacy. Featuring insights from film legends like Tim Burton, John Carpenter, Joe Dante, and John Logan, along with interviews from Hammer’s own cherished stars and experts, the documentary offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the studio’s unique style and influence.