OpenAI power struggle set for big screen in Luca Guadagnino’s ‘Artificial’

Artificial dramatizes the brief but fierce leadership conflict at OpenAI during 2023, focusing on CEO Sam Altman’s unexpected ousting and quick return, while exposing the internal struggles that sparked worldwide attention on AI safety and the future of governance in tech

Renowned director Luca Guadagnino is reportedly in advanced discussions to helm Artificial, a new feature film exploring the high-stakes leadership turmoil at OpenAI in late 2023, when CEO Sam Altman was ousted and swiftly reinstated in a matter of days.

The film is being fast-tracked by Amazon MGM Studios, with production reportedly moving at an unusually rapid pace. Set to be produced by David Heyman and Jeffrey Clifford under Heyday Films, the project features a script by writer-producer Simon Rich. Jennifer Fox is also in talks to join the producing team.

According to reports citing industry sources, filming could begin as early as this summer, with San Francisco and Italy being considered as primary locations. While no official casting announcements have been made, early conversations suggest Andrew Garfield may portray Altman. Monica Barbaro is reportedly being considered for the role of CTO Mira Murati, while Russian actor Yura Borisov could take on the role of Ilya Sutskever, OpenAI's chief scientist and a central figure in the leadership shake-up.

Recreating OpenAI’s turbulent moment

The movie is expected to delve into the behind-the-scenes tension at one of the most influential AI companies in the world, following a brief but intense internal power struggle that caught the tech industry off guard. The incident drew global attention as concerns over AI safety and governance came into focus.

Artificial would mark Guadagnino’s third collaboration with Amazon MGM Studios, following After the Hunt, a psychological thriller set for release in October, and Challengers, a tennis drama starring Zendaya released last year.

The director was previously attached to Sgt. Rock, a DC Comics-inspired war film starring Colin Farrell, which has since been shelved—reportedly freeing his schedule to take on this timely and high-profile tech drama. 

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