Major studios including Netflix, A24, Focus Features, and Warner Bros Clockwork have reportedly declined to distribute Luca Guadagnino’s biographical drama Artificial. The project centres on Sam Altman, the former CEO of OpenAI, and explores the internal dynamics of the company. Amazon MGM, which had been set to handle distribution, pulled out just as postproduction was nearing completion. While independent labels Neon and Mubi remain interested, the pattern suggests major players are hesitant to finance critical narratives about big technology firms. This decision comes after Amazon itself dropped the film following reports of its own distancing from OpenAI leadership.
The situation highlights a growing reluctance within the industry to support content that scrutinises powerful tech corporations. Studios appear to be avoiding potential backlash or legal complications that could arise from depicting internal conflicts at companies like OpenAI. This trend could limit the diversity of stories told about the artificial intelligence sector, leaving complex corporate histories to be covered only by smaller distributors or independent filmmakers.
- Amazon MGM withdrew from distribution shortly before postproduction finished
- Major studios cited internal reviews before passing on the project
- Neon and Mubi are currently the only reported interested parties
