Luca Guadagnino's biographical film "Artificial," starring Andrew Garfield as OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, found a new distributor after Amazon MGM abandoned the project. Neon acquired the nearly completed film following Amazon's decision to shelve it in the wake of the tech giant's $50 billion partnership with OpenAI.
The film's troubled path reflects the complex business entanglements now shaping Hollywood. When Amazon made its massive investment in Altman's company, the studio faced an obvious conflict. Distributing a biographical drama about Altman could appear to promote or celebrate the figure whose company now represents a major business interest for the retailer. The solution came swiftly: drop the film.
Guadagnino, the Italian auteur behind "Call Me By Your Name" and "Suspiria," brings his artistic sensibility to a portrait of one of technology's most influential and controversial figures. Garfield, fresh from his acclaimed work in Todd Field's "Nosferatu," carries the lead role. The script reportedly explores Altman's rise and the ethical questions surrounding artificial intelligence development.
Neon, the indie distributor known for championing ambitious cinema, seized the opportunity. The boutique label has built its reputation on releasing boundary-pushing films that might struggle at traditional studios. Its acquisition of "Artificial" signals confidence in both the project's artistic merit and its commercial viability despite the baggage surrounding its subject.
The film was positioned for 2025 release, though Neon's distribution timeline remains unclear. The acquisition represents a minor victory for artistic independence within commercial filmmaking. A prestige director, a marquee actor, and a topical subject matter deserve an audience. Neon's willingness to pick up the project where Amazon retreated suggests the distributor believes the film can succeed on its own terms, independent of corporate politics or tech industry relationships.