Peter Cushing Will Be Resurrected With AI in Upcoming HAMMER: HEROES, LEGENDS AND MONSTERS Documentary
Peter Cushing will be resurrected for a new project thanks to AI. The AI version of the iconic Frankenstein and Dracula star will appear in the documentary, Hammer: Heroes, Legends and Monsters.
Hammer movie comes from Sky, which says fans will be treated to a “powerful and poignant reveal of Hammer royalty,” with what is being described as a “special homage” to Cushing.
As many of you know, Cushing, who passed away in 1994, played Doctor Van Helsing in five Dracula films and Baron Frankenstein in six movies from that franchise.
This news was shared by the doc’s producer Deep Fusion Films during a “world first” podcast hosted by a replica of the late chat show presenter Michael Parkinson.
The documentary will be narrated by Charles Dance, and it’s being released in celebration of Hammer Films‘ 90th birthday. The doc “will track its progression from a back office in London’s Regent Street to its iconic status within the horror film genre.”
It will reveal “how Hammer’s distinct visual style and storytelling continue to shape modern horror and inspire filmmakers around the world.”
Ben Field, who runs Deep Fusion, said the Hammer doc resurrection has secured all necessary permissions. He said that the decision to resurrect Cushing is “tied to his significance to the Hammer legacy.”
“As a figure central to Hammer’s success, Cushing’s presence is crucial to telling the story authentically. His work, particularly alongside Christopher Lee, was instrumental in shaping the brand and legacy of Hammer Films.
“Including him allows the project to honor the spirit and impact he had on the studio and its fans, creating a connection between the past and this new exploration.”
Field went on to add that bringing Cushing back for the doc was approached with “great care,” and that “The team’s intent is not to manipulate or sensationalize but to use technology as a tool to bring audiences closer to the history of Hammer Films in an engaging and reverent manner.”
Cushing was previously resurrected for 2016’s Rogue One: A Star Wars Story for Grand Moff Tarkin. That resulted in some backlash and a high court legal battle over the use of the image was recently ruled by a judge to go to trial.
Hammer: Heroes, Legends and Monsters will also include other influential figures from the horror genre such as Christopher Lee.
Talent that was interviewed for the do include Tim Burton, John Carpenter, Joe Dante and John Logan.
The doc will get a limited theatrical run and launch on Sky Arts on Halloween.
Source: Deadline