Amazon’s Controversial OpenAI Movie ‘Artificial’ Reportedly Casts Sam Altman Negatively

A new Hollywood film centered on the rivalry between Elon Musk and Sam Altman is set to hit theaters in 2027, and initial reports indicate that it will not portray either tech leader in a positive light.

The film, titled ‘Artificial’, is directed by Luca Guadagnino and is being produced under Amazon MGM. It delves into the early conflicts within the artificial intelligence sector and the tensions among prominent tech figures. Andrew Garfield takes on the role of Sam Altman, while Ike Barinholtz portrays Elon Musk.

Sources speaking to Page Six Hollywood reveal that the studio aims for an early 2027 release. This timing is strategic, intended to avoid clashing with another upcoming tech drama that explores similar themes but features a different cast of Silicon Valley characters.

The film has yet to be screened for the public, and Sam Altman has not seen it either. This has created some tension around the project, particularly since early reports suggest he may not be happy with his portrayal.

Insiders indicate that both Musk and Altman are depicted negatively in the narrative. The film does not aim to cast them as straightforward heroes or villains, but rather presents them as complex and flawed individuals.

Interestingly, the main focus of the movie may not be on either of the two tech giants. Instead, it appears to center on Ilya Sutskever, one of the co-founders of OpenAI, portrayed by Yura Borisov. Early reports suggest that his character becomes the emotional core of the film, experiencing the most significant consequences throughout the depicted events.

The script has undergone multiple revisions during its development. Initial industry buzz indicated that the writing process faced challenges, with substantial rewrites occurring once the director became more involved. Amazon decided to proceed with the project after acquiring it at an early stage.

Additionally, the film’s real-world context adds sensitivity to its portrayal. OpenAI and Amazon have recently formed a significant business partnership involving substantial investment, which has drawn extra scrutiny to the film’s depiction of key figures associated with OpenAI.

Sources confirm that no outside audiences, including Sam Altman, have yet viewed the final cut. The studio is currently preparing for test screenings as it approaches the film’s completion.

Another tech-themed film is also in the works at Sony, exploring similar issues surrounding social media and leadership in big tech. This project is expected to be released in late 2026, potentially leading to a series of competing narratives about Silicon Valley power dynamics in a short timeframe.

For now, ‘Artificial’ stands out as one of the most anticipated upcoming films in Hollywood, primarily due to its real-life inspirations and the high-profile talent involved both in front of and behind the camera.

Films like this often create tension as they blend real individuals with dramatic storytelling. While they can be compelling to watch, they also risk oversimplifying intricate real-world events for entertainment purposes. It will be intriguing to see how balanced the final product feels upon its release. What are your thoughts on films that depict living public figures? Share your opinions in the comments.